London, UK – 02 Oct, 2025 – The Welsh Government has partnered with Barratt Redrow to deliver the nation’s largest net zero carbon housing project, marking a major milestone in sustainable development for both Wales and the UK. The new scheme at Cosmeston Farm in the Vale of Glamorgan, managed by Savills Cardiff, will provide 576 highly energy-efficient homes, with half allocated as affordable housing.
As part of the project’s commitment to rigorous sustainability standards, Cardiff University has been appointed to independently assess and verify data monitoring the zero carbon performance of each home. The development stands out not only for its scale being one of the largest net zero initiatives in Europe but also for its comprehensive community integration, which includes a primary school, attractive open spaces, and active travel routes. Of the entire housing portfolio, 219 homes will be available for social rent.
In an official press release, Jayne Bryant, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, emphasized the broader impact, stating, “This landmark development sets a new standard for sustainable housing not only in Wales but across the UK and beyond. This isn't just about building homes - it's about creating thriving communities and tackling the climate emergency head-on. Our net zero policy is driving real investment and real change in how we build the homes Wales desperately needs. The agreement with Barratt Redrow represents a significant step-change that shows what's possible when we put people and our planet first, and I’m particularly pleased with their commitment to delivering training and apprenticeships, helping to build skills and careers for the next generation.”
David Thomas, Chief Executive of Barratt Redrow, highlighted the project's unique value: “As one of leading housebuilders in Wales we are proud to be working with the Welsh Government to build the largest net zero new community in the UK. It will be an exemplary development and a great place to live, with fantastic community facilities, a strong commitment to affordable housing, and cutting-edge sustainability credentials. Every highly energy efficient home will be heated by a ground source heat pump and powered by photovoltaic panels and batteries, cutting carbon and bills for future residents.”
Scott Caldwell, Head of Savills Cardiff Development, added, “This commitment by Barratt Redrow, the largest PLC housebuilder in the UK, is believed to be the first of its kind at this scale in the UK. It represents a significant investment and harnesses a raft of industry expertise and knowledge to help demonstrate how delivery standards can be implemented at scale to support the Welsh Government’s journey towards net zero. Learning from the Cosmeston journey is expected to help inform how development can deliver more stringent environmental standards into the future.”
The Cosmeston Farm initiative presents a blueprint for scaling sustainable housing and demonstrates the opportunities for large-scale investment in net zero communities. This partnership may serve as a model for future developments across the UK, positioning Wales at the forefront of climate-conscious housing policy and delivery.
