North Kesteven District Council has confirmed that it will build two three-bedroom properties out of straw bales at a site at West Grove in Martin. Planning permission for the project was granted this week, with work due to start later this year.
The low carbon buildings have been designed by West Yorkshire-based straw specialists Amazonails, with all construction materials set to be locally sourced. Alongside the insulation benefits that straw brings, the properties will be fitted with wood-burning stoves in place of heating systems to cut energy consumption and utility bills for future owners. The houses will be finished with lime plaster to give the appearance of conventional homes.
Councillor Marion Brighton OBE, leader of North Kesteven District Council, said: "I am very pleased that planning permission has been granted for the straw houses and I am very much looking forward to seeing them being built. The district council not only hopes to share its expertise and knowledge with other organisations, but also with residents by inviting them to come and watch the whole process of the houses being built."
