Work on an innovative �2million project to create environmentally sustainable homes in Thetford has reached a new high with a traditional topping out ceremony.

Work on an innovative �2million project to create environmentally sustainable homes in Thetford has reached a new high with a traditional topping out ceremony.

It marked the completion of work on the uppermost point of the affordable housing development at the Saxon Bank site, off Jubilee Close.

The once overgrown parcel of land has been cleared to make way for a mix of 15 contemporary properties comprising one, two and three bedroom houses and two bedroom flats.

The new eco-homes, which have been designed to very high standards of sustainability and environmental efficiency, are being insulated with special panels to reduce energy loss and keep them warm. They will also be triple glazed, with large glass panels added on all south-facing walls to harness the heat of the sun.

The properties will use an air source heating system, which will “recycle” heat generated in kitchens and bathrooms throughout the homes using an under floor system, in turn helping to reduce fuel bills. Sustainable materials, such as timber, are being used during construction to keep the development's carbon footprint to an absolute minimum.

Suffolk Housing Society has largely funded the project, with �640,000 coming as a grant from the Housing Corporation through its developer partner the Key Communities Consortium.

Steve Clarke, chief executive of the society, said: “We are delighted to have reached such an important milestone in this ground-breaking project, both on time and on budget. We're grateful to our development partners Iceni Homes and builders Brooks and Wood for their hard work in helping the scheme to reach this stage.

“Its hugely exciting to see these homes take shape as their contemporary design and environmental features really set them apart from more traditional houses. We hope this will make them extremely popular with our residents once work is complete.”

The properties will be offered to people on Breckland District Council's housing register on a rental or shared ownership basis.

Mike Goodson, managing director of Iceni Homes, said the homes will be a “shining example” of high quality sustainable development which it is hoped will set a benchmark for the future.