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Nick Raynsford, Construction Minister,(right) formally opened the project on October 27th 1998. Mr. Raynsford said: "I applaud the commitment of everyone involved in the project and particularly the energy conservation initiatives as this is Energy Efficiency Week.This housing development represents a truly innovative approach to constructing new homes using sustainable techniques and materials in a way which is building a real community spirit. The project employs local people, uses locally produced materials where possible and considers how best to protect the local environment. It is this holistic approach which is needed to achieve sustainable development – and I congratulate everyone concerned."

HRH the Duke of Gloucester,(left), visited the project on 5th November1998. The Duke, himself an architect, said the development was "sound scientific theory put into good practice."

 

 

 

Charles Secrett, Director, Friends of the Earth visited the project, May 1999 – "Projects like this show that there are alternatives from the dominant way of life, that causes so much damage, isn’t the only way. As people come and see, listen, learn, and understand that green technologies deliver in better ways, they would like some as well – to help live a more sustainable life."

The Times (Feb 10th 1999) – "Energy-conserving houses may open up a builders’ market for the future - …the Government has been using legislation and from 2000 revised building regulations will tighten the minimum standards of insulation and thermal efficiency. Builders are slowly coming round to the view that reduced running costs may be a selling point." (article focussing on Hockerton Housing project)

The Ecology Building Society – "a new way of living…one of the most advanced developments in sustainable housing in Europe" (Newsletter, June 1998)

 

Tony Currivan, Architect and writer for ‘Building for a Future’ - "Hopefully the first of many"

Vera Gunthner = "Fascinatingly nice and simple! This idea should spread!"

Alice Page, FoE - "A unique experience of the way forward "

Rick Wilberforce, Pilkington - "Spread the word "

John Field, Target Energy Services - "You lead – we’ll all follow "

Roger Truscott, Bakewell Civic society - "Fascinating – a real model for the future"

John Beardmore, Derby Alternative Technology association - "May it be the first of many"

Andy Paget - "Thanks very much for showing us around the project on Saturday (and for your heroic endeavour getting it built in the first place). The whole place had a very uplifting feeling and was such a clear embodiment of the kind of shift in thinking that is so desperately needed. I’m sure, since it’s been open, the project has been inspiring like-minded folk and changing the minds of sceptics at an impressive rate"

Katy Ansell - "Just a short note to say thank-you very much for Saturday, it was an excellent outing, your houses are brilliant and the whole thing was very inspiring."