<p>The Crown Estate has launched two net zero carbon housing projects which will test different approaches and concentrate on embodied carbon as well as energy efficiency.</p> <p><span>Through the projects in Bedford and Cheshire, the Crown Estate will explore how new homes can be produced with less than 300kg/sqm of embodied carbon while “meeting ambitious energy efficiency targets”. It is seeking SME and entrepreneurial partners for its initiative; those chosen will be expected to follow “market leading guidance”, demonstrating circular economy and regenerative principles in their proposals.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>The Crown Estate intends to test different models for project delivery, including through incentives to achieve environmental and financial outcomes. Both housing projects will, according to The Crown Estate, encourage innovation in reducing operational and embodied carbon while drawing on sustainable design best practice.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>The first demonstration project at Wootton, Bedford, is a site of 15 acres with a Neighbourhood Plan allocation for around 50 homes – 30% will be affordable.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>The second in Knutsford, Cheshire, also featuring 30% affordable homes, has outline consent for up to </span><span>60 properties and a link road and roundabout. The Crown Estate noted the “additional challenge” here of delivering low carbon road infrastructure.</span></p><p></p> <p><span>It also said that it …