Gs8’s flagship Carpenters Yard scheme in Thornwood, Epping Forest, will include more than 100 homes built to the highest environmental standards.
The site will become the UK’s largest ‘zero bills’ community, with residents guaranteed zero energy bills for at least five years.
“Every single aspect of Carpenters Yard has been carefully designed to support healthy and happy lifestyles connected to nature.
“We set out to build homes that meet the needs of all demographics, provide modern living and are future-proofed.
“It has been a privilege to work closely alongside the local community, enterprising businesses, Epping Forest District Council and Essex County Council to bring this incredible development to fruition, and we’re looking forward to welcoming the first residents later this year.”
The development includes 113 design-led two, three, and four-bedroom properties.
It is powered by a fully renewable microgrid developed in partnership with energy firm Octopus Energy.
Nigel Banks, Zero Bills director at Octopus Energy, said: “Carpenters Yard is more than a new neighbourhood – it’s a blueprint for sustainable living.
“Together with forward-thinking housebuilders like gs8, we’re making ‘zero bills’ the standard for a greener, more affordable future.”
Homes will use integrated photovoltaic panels that generate more energy than they consume each year.
Built under gs8’s ‘Planet Positive Framework’, the development follows zero-waste principles.
All usable materials are repurposed and no skips are used onsite.
The scheme also places a strong emphasis on community living, offering allotments, a fitness centre, a community hub, a grocery store with cafe, a communal DIY and reuse centre, and an electric bike scheme in partnership with Volt.
There will also be electric car club vehicles in collaboration with Nissan.
Two-bedroom houses start from £550,000, while four-bedroom houses begin at £850,000.
Two and three-bedroom apartments are also available from £550,000.
The marketing suite opens on June 27, with the show home launching in late July.
The first homes are expected to be completed in late 2025.
