Top 10 UK homebuilder, Keepmoat, is celebrating after its Water’s Edge development in Blackburn won the Sustainability Award at the North West PROPS Awards on 10th October.

The 205-strong site in Blackburn was recognised for its ‘outstanding commitment to sustainability’ with judges acknowledging the design efforts made to enhance biodiversity through measures such as wildlife ‘corridors’ and the incorporation of Sustainable Urban Drainage ponds (SuDs) to store surface rainwater runoffs. 

Working in partnership with the housing association Great Places, the project at Water’s Edge is prioritising the creation of new, energy-efficient homes that feature solar panels and heat recovery systems to build much-needed housing stock in the area whilst making the neighbourhood a richer habitat for birds, bees, plants and people.

Of the new homes to be built, 57 are being delivered in partnership with Great Places. The development will offer 37 apartments for affordable rent, and 20 homes for shared ownership, to be sold by Plumlife Homes. 

The housebuilder invested £31 million into Water’s Edge. As well as including a variety of biodiversity enhancement measures, the development will include new play areas and footpath links to Fishmoor Reservoir which will create opportunities for healthier routines through walking and cycling whilst enabling residents of all ages to reconnect with nature by enjoying the abundance of green space or playing on the children's park. 

Celebrating the award win, Keepmoat’s Regional Managing Director, Peter Barlow, said:

“It’s great to win the Sustainability Award and be recognised for the transformation, placemaking and sustainable design that is taking place in Blackburn. 

“It is also a testament to the work that the Keepmoat team is undertaking, alongside our partners, to improve the area, providing both energy-efficient homes and ecological and green spaces, something which is hugely important in our current climate.’’

Since 1992, the North West PROPS Awards have been run by children’s charity Variety and work to recognise and celebrate individuals and companies who have excelled in the sector, while raising vital funds for the children and young people Variety supports.

Over the last 92 years, Keepmoat has built more than 35,000 homes and currently has 80 live developments. To find out more about Keepmoat please visit: www.keepmoat.com