Thursday 19 March 2020

Super-energy-efficient ‘extra care’ facility to open in Exeter

Exeter City Council has announced the opening of what it claims is the UK's first super-energy-efficient ‘extra care’ apartment complex.

It says the Edwards Court building, which has been carefully designed to meet the needs of elderly residents and dementia sufferers, will be the first Passivhaus-standard facility of its kind in the country.

The facility’s internal environment will provide unique heat, air and water features for ‘optimum comfort’ and utilising key weather data from the University of Exeter, will also adapt to changing weather climates.

Phil Bialyk, Exeter City Council leader, said: “We’ve reached a key milestone in the construction of this amazing building.

“Exeter is committed to becoming a net zero carbon city by 2030 and the council is leading by example, constructing both new council housing and other developments to super-energy-efficient standards.”

Andrew Leadbetter, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Care and Health, added: “We would all rather be able to stay living in our own homes as our health deteriorates.

“Extra care housing like this, alongside personal care delivered in the community, is giving people that opportunity to receive the care they need while remaining as independent as possible in their own home."