SEEDA is committed to ensuring that the development of Daedalus is sensitive to all aspects of the environment.  The Agency is keen to ensure that the scheme enhances the natural environment and is sustainable whilst maximising the economic potential of the site. Click here to see the landscape appraisal baseline report, which identifies what the characteristics are of the existing natural environment at and surrounding Daedalus

Those working on the design and development of the site will be asked to consider the following principles:

• Global, Local and Internal Environments

Wherever possible building at Daedalus will meet and aspire to exceed best practice standards such as those set out in Ecohomes and SEEDA’s own Sustainability Checklist.   Consideration of how best to incorporate low emission technologies as well as how best to heat space; ensure internal and external air quality; provide adequate ventilation; reduce noise and vibration; and enhance natural and artificial lighting will also be given. 

• Land  

As Daedalus used to be owned by the MOD it is likely that the land is contaminated.  This will need to be remediated before any building can take place.  Efforts will be made to ensure that the soil is cleaned on site and material taken off or brought onto the site will be kept to a minimum wherever possible.

• Transport and Mobility 

Transportation consultants, MVA Consultancy, are looking at how dependency on cars can be minimised.  Consideration is being given to alternative methods of transport including efficient, accessible and attractive pedestrian, cycle and public transport systems within the site that connect well with existing provision in the surrounding area. This will contribute to minimising the consumption of fossil fuels, traffic congestion and pollution.

• Water

Freshwater is becoming an increasingly precious resource.  It is likely that a number of measures to reduce demand for this will be implemented including rainwater harvesting, re-use of grey-water, and installation of low consumption devices.  The potential for sustainable drainage systems which reduce rapid water loss will also be considered.

• Air

Emissions into the atmosphere will be minimised wherever possible through thoughtful design, best practice construction techniques and building management systems.  In addition to this, transport consultants, MVA Consultancy, are considering the viability of attractive, accessible and sustainable transport options which will reduce dependence on the private car and therefore reduce pollution.

• Biodiversity and Ecology

As part of the planning process, full environmental studies including an Environmental Assessment (EA) will be undertaken before any development commences.  This will ensure that all species of animals, reptiles and plants are identified and their habitats are located.  Measures will be taken to ensure their continued survival post-development.

• Energy

Consultants will look at the ways the development could be made energy efficient.  Careful design and sustainable construction techniques and materials will be used in accordance with best practice.  The possibility of generating energy from renewable energy sources such as solar panels will be examined.

• Use of materials

Sustainable materials and construction techniques will be used wherever appropriate.

• Waste

The disposal of waste generated on site will be considered.  The repair, re-use and recycling of items for disposal will be encouraged as the need for off-site
disposal of waste will attempt to be minimised.

• Social Inclusion 

At the heart of the design and layout of the development will be all members of the existing and new local community – whatever your race, ethnicity,
gender or sexual orientation, disability, age or religion.

	SEEDA is committed to exploring how the needs of local businesses and the community can be incorporated into the built and natural environment in an environmentally sensitive and sustainable manner at Daedalus.