Sarah Dyke MP visited Delamare Park in Frome, Barratt Homes' first gas-free site in the country, to see first-hand the housebuilders' innovative approach to energy-efficient housing, showcasing the future of residential development.

The MP for Somerton and Frome was taken on a tour of the near sell-out site by the team from Barratt David Wilson Homes South West including land director, John Parry and Delamare Park's NHBC-award winning site manager, Neil Dipple.

 Sarah Dyke MP said: "The Liberal Democrats are committed to cutting greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2045, so it's very encouraging to see that one of the country's biggest housebuilders is taking the climate crisis seriously, protecting the natural environment and incorporating energy efficient technology into new homes in Somerton and Frome.

"I hope other builders follow this lead."

Heat pumps the story

Unlike traditional boilers which are the largest contributor to household carbon emissions, air source heat pumps require only water and electric connection and can operate when outside temperatures are as low as -20°C.

They transfer heat from the outside air to water which heat rooms via radiators.

They also heat water stored in a hot water cylinder for hot taps, showers and baths.

Designed specifically for UK homes, the ultra-quiet Ecodan air source heat pumps installed at Delamare Park have a ErP (Energy Related Products Directive) A++ performance rating and they can be controlled via a smartphone, tablet or computer. Using cloud-based technology, the air source heat pumps can also be accessed remotely for maintenance and technical support.

The development, named after Sir John de la Mare, a knight in the court of King Edward III who built nearby Nunney Castle in the 14th century, also includes electric car charging provisions.