Net-zero homes with solar panels and heat pumps to be built in Mid Sussex

A housebuilder has pledged to deliver dozens of net-zero carbon homes in Mid Sussex, with solar panels, heat pumps and other sustainable features.

Thakeham Homes announced the £58m joint venture with housing association Aster Group, and 120 new homes will be built in Burgess Hill as part of the deal.

Construction is already underway at the site, named Templegate, with completion expected by spring 2026.

The homes will include timber frames, solar PV panels and air source heat pumps, as well as wastewater heat recovery systems, alongside energy-efficient windows and doors and increased floor and roof insulation.

This combination of renewable energy and efficiency means that carbon emissions from operating the homes are zero or below and will leave no carbon footprint, the housebuilder said.

Rob Boughton, founder and chief executive of Thakeham Homes, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Aster Group to deliver this pioneering zero carbon development in Burgess Hill. Sustainability is at the forefront of our design from the outset and a guiding principle in everything we do – and this development with Aster will set a new benchmark for sustainable living.”

Amanda Williams, chief investment officer at Aster Group, said: “Having previously established a strong working relationship with Thakeham, we’re proud to be coming together again, this time through this joint venture, to deliver an exciting net zero carbon scheme in Mid Sussex.

“I strongly believe that adopting a collaborative and targeted approach to housebuilding is crucial given the acute housing shortage, as we continue on our mission to deliver the quality, sustainable homes our communities so desperately need.”