The Gardens at Whipton

Project

The Gardens

Location

Whipton, Exeter

Client

Exeter City Council

Contract

£9.8m

Duration

100 weeks

No. of Units

XX units

Project Description

The Gardens at Whipton is a landmark low-energy housing development for Exeter City Council delivering 35 high-quality Passivhaus apartments and enabling works for two proceeding phases. Built on the site of a former care home, the scheme forms the first phase of a wider 91-unit masterplan that supports the city’s ambition to lead the UK in sustainable, affordable housing.

“We were the first ones in, and our new home is really lovely. We are so happy. There’s no way you’re going to get better than this – we love it” – New resident.

Classic Builders was appointed through a competitive two-stage tender process to manage the design and construction under the JCT Constructing Excellence contract – a progressive, collaborative form of contract that promotes a true “one-team” approach. From pre-construction onwards, our team worked closely with the client and consultants to drive value, efficiency and performance.

The scheme is unique in many ways. It adopts a monolithic interlocking clay-block structure, providing excellent thermal performance and build speed. A mix of brick, through-colour render and brick facades create a contemporary apartment block in keeping with the local context. Triple-glazed composite windows and MVHR systems ensure full Passivhaus certification. Landscaped communal gardens, EV charging points and cycle storage complete the development, promoting wellbeing and sustainability.

“It is great that the first residents have now moved into these fantastic new energy-efficient council homes – it was such a pleasure to meet them and see how happy they are in their new home.” – Councillor Marina Asvachin of Exeter City Council (Portfolio Holder for Housing, Homelessness Prevention and Customer Services).

Innovation and problem-solving were at the centre of this award winning project. The client specified MMC system was introduced to the local market – supported by dedicated on-site training and mock-up builds to ensure full understanding and familiarity.

We resolved design issues to maintain full structural compliance and quality. As we were using a new MMC Cat 2 product we commissioned independent testing to validate material performance. Bulk-procured processes were used for key materials from Europe to secure programme certainty and maximise client cost saving opportunities.

The Gardens at Whipton showcases Classic Builders’ capability in delivering complex, high-performance housing through collaboration and innovation. Repeatedly recognised by LABC and the Considerate Constructors Scheme for its exceptional standards and community engagement, the project sets a new benchmark for sustainable residential development in the South West.