Image of One of the new energy-efficient homes built in Elm Street

College vies for 'Best New Building' in construction awards

Jesus College is a finalist in the Greater Cambridge Design and Construction Awards 2024.

The College is in the running for an award for best new building (under £2 million) category for a development in Elm Street which saw 21 garages and an electrical substation replaced by eight energy-efficient new homes to rent.

The homes – a mixture of one and two-bedroom properties – were designed by PiP Architecture with accessibility at the forefront and feature level access entrances and adaptable internal spaces. 

Sustainability was also a priority for the project. Internal air source heat pumps, sustainable materials, enhanced insulation, permeable block paving and a focus on air tightness were all incorporated into the build.

Gareth Godfrey of building contractor Godfrey and Hicks said: “The goal was to create a stylish, modern, and low-energy development that not only harmonises with its surroundings but also enhances the street scene while addressing the need for small-scale energy-efficient rental properties in this area of Cambridge.”

Isabel Harrison, Housing and Property Manager for Jesus College, added: “We’re delighted to be shortlisted for this award.

“There is a real need in Cambridge city centre for more accessible, energy-efficient rental properties and we’re pleased to be able to revive and regenerate a brownfield site, delivering eight fantastic, new homes that demonstrate our commitment to green construction methods and to inclusive design.

“We would like to thank Godfrey & Hicks for their excellent work, and local residents for their co-operation and understanding while construction was under way.”

Organised by the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service and the Cambridge Forum for the Construction Industry, the awards celebrate the best construction projects completed in the area – from new buildings and conservation work, to alterations or extensions to existing buildings, and new landscapes.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Monday, 4 March.