Riverside One, UK

A community applying the One Planet principles

The Middlehaven regeneration project, in Middlesbrough, North East England, has been masterplanned by Will Alsop and Studi Egret West for Tees Valley Regeneration with development of the 250 acre site ex-dockyard quarter proposed to take part in three stages.

BioRegional Quintain Ltd (BQL) is the developer for Phase 1, also known as Riverside One, set to be the largest zero carbon development in the UK. Planning permission has been granted to provide over 750 homes, a 120 bedroom hotel, 250,000 sq. ft of office space, 150,000 sq.ft retail / leisure facilities and 40,000 sq.ft of entertainment space on the waterfront.

In March 2010, BQL started construction on the first of fifteen futuristic residential blocks, called Community In A Cube or CIAC, designed by FAT Architects. With a commitment to achieving BREEAM/ EcoHomes “Excellent” ratings, the residential blocks will be highly insulated to stay warm in winter, with argon filled double glazing and energy efficient lighting and appliances. The concrete frame construction will enable the building to stay cool in summer by absorbing heat. The reduced demand for heat and electricity will be met using renewable energy generated from both on-site (biomass boiler) and offsite sources (wind power) to achieve net zero carbon dioxide emissions.

Apartments will be specified with the latest water efficient appliances and fittings, with the aim to significantly reduce domestic water consumption. Rainwater will be used within the landscape for irrigation and amenity, and where necessary will be discharged into the dock to reduce the load on local drainage systems.

There will also be onsite waste segregation and composting facilities to help residents recycle, a car club to reduce the need for private car ownership, and community space. A community governance body will be established with the responsibility for ongoing monitoring of performance against the 10 One Planet principles, and residents’ extranet will be set up to help promote sustainable lifestyles and engender a sense of community identity.