Project 80 is a demonstrator development being built on brownfield land in Handsworth, Birmingham for social housing provider Midland Heart. The aim of the project is to build homes that meet the government’s Future Homes Standard three years ahead of schedule.

The 12 homes – made up of two, three and four bedroomed properties - are being built largely using traditional materials, including brick. Each will be built to very high fabric standards and will incorporate a low carbon heating system. Once completed, the homes will generate 75-80% less carbon emissions than homes built to current energy efficiency requirements (Approved Document L 2013).

Ibstock is one of a number of building products suppliers collaborating on the project to improve the thermal efficiency of the properties. Birmingham City University will undertake in-depth research of the development to evidence all aspects of the design and delivery. The findings and data will be submitted to the government as part of its consultation on the Future Homes Standard – which will be compulsory for all new homes built by 2025 – thereby helping shape future policy and building regulation standards.