Milton Keynes City Council has granted planning permission for an external redevelopment project involving 39 dwellings, that focus on upgrading the thermal performance of walls and roofs, and improving the longevity of the buildings.
Yesterday (September 3), Milton Keynes City Council approved a planning application that will address various aspects of homes across Lakes Estate, including upgrading the thermal performance of walls, roofs, and the perimeter of the ground floor. The project will also involve improvements to windows and doors, enhancing air tightness, and incorporating controlled ventilation systems. Measures to mitigate summertime overheating, such as window modifications and added shading, will also be implemented.
The application aligns with the goals outlined in Plan:MK, which promotes retrofitting improvements for existing buildings within the borough. The Application Delegated Report (ADR), states, "The Council supports the principle of the proposed renovations, which are intended to enhance the energy efficiency and standard of accommodation of the homes in question, with knock-on benefits in relation to the living conditions of occupiers.”
The Lakes Estate Neighbourhood Plan's policy (GP1) advocates for sustainable development, encompassing economic, social, and environmental considerations. The proposed upgrades are set to offer significant social benefits by enhancing the living standards of the residents while also contributing to environmental and economic improvements. These include reducing fuel usage, lowering heating costs, and cutting carbon emissions.
The redevelopment project will primarily involve removing existing cladding from the dwellings and replacing it with a neutral off-white or light grey render finish. This aesthetic update is expected to enhance the external appearance of the properties while also improving their longevity and compliance with current fire safety regulations.
Although the application provided limited supporting sustainability information, it detailed significant improvements to insulation, windows, and entrance canopies. The ADR also states that the works would make the dwellings more suitable for future retrofit works using renewable and low-carbon energy and heating sources, such as air source heat pumps, solar PV panels, and solar thermal technologies.
With the planning permission now in place, the development must commence within three years from the approval date (September 3, 2024). This project marks a significant step toward enhancing the sustainability and quality of housing across Lakes Estate.
