The plan consists of three main projects; replacing gas heating by bio-mass heating alternatives, insulating cavity walls and introducing solar hot water heating.  “This is the first time in the country that an existing whole street has been refitted using sustainable energy”, said Gail Bamford who is a co-op member and the co-ordinator of the C60 Project Team.  Wooden pellets from recycled sawdust are used as fuel for the boilers.

In addition to the main projects the co-op is also introducing other green measures such as replacement of all light bulbs on the estate for more energy efficient ones, changing traditional extractor fans in the kitchens to humidistat ones and renewal of dormer windows with automatically controlled ventilation windows. The cost of these works is around £230,000

 The C60 Project Team, made up of co-op members, is working with 3 different contractors on the energy saving works.  J3 Building Futures LLP, a firm of environmental architectural consultants, is managing the whole project including some other works.  The C60 Project is a pioneering unique, bold, impressive and innovative scheme from which other co-ops can learn.  Sanford must be congratulated for being so mature and sensible. 

 The co-op is also renewing kitchens, windows, doors and carrying out general repairs to all the properties. About £220,000 is being spent on these improvements.  The improvements are being done in as green a way as possible.  When all the work is done Sanford will be a very nice place to live. 

 For more information, free consultancy advice, practical support and training on how your co-op can reduce carbon emissions please contact Co-operatives UK, the umbrella organisation for all co-ops in the UK.