An exploration of the challenges facing developers of affordabe dwellings following low carbon and ecological principles, in rural locations in Wales

Abstract

This paper discusses the challenges in developing ecological,low carbon and affordable dwellings in rural ares of Wales; since much of the funding in the UK is often focused on urban development. The Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) is committed to the aim that the construction of new homes moves towards zero carbon as soon as possible. There is a need to ensure that this strategy recognises that one size does not fit all; and understanding and addressing these issues will be fundamental if WAG objectives are too be achieved in rural areas. This paper discusses a three year research project, which commenced in autumn 2012 in collaboration with the University of Wales Institute Cardiff (UWIC) and Prembrokeshire Housing Association (PHA), a registered social landlord and developer of affordable dwellings; to create a development model for affordable, low carbon, ecological rural dwellings to achieve WAG targets. This paper will be of use to rural developers, designers and architects.