Bristol has been voted the happiest city and best place to live in the UK in 2017. With such a vast range of properties to choose from, it can be hard to make a decision. Should you contact a Clifton builder about investing in a Victorian property in Clifton Wood, a Georgian Town House in Abbots Leigh, or something different?
Bristol has its own currency, the Bristol Pound. It was also awarded the name “European Green Capital in 2015, the first UK city to gain the title. So, let’s cast aside all thoughts of buying a second-hand property in Clifton, and take a leaf out of Ashley Vale’s book. Arriving in Bristol, there is one community that really stands out from the crowd, and it can be found just 3.3 miles from Clifton. Ashley Vale is an Eco Community. Nestling in a green bowl, you will find a mini nature reserve, a city farm, and surreal-looking houses, each with their own allotment. 26 homes in all make up this fantastic Eco Village. So, what’s it like to live in an Eco Home?
Ashley Vale : An Eco Community Just 3 Miles from Clifton
Ashley Vale is not just unique in the city because it is the only eco community. It is unique because all of the 26 homes you find there were self-built. Homes are made from wood, glass, copper and all of them glint in the sunshine due to their solar panels. No two homes are alike in this oasis of calm.
The project began in 2000 when residents overturned the plans to build a housing estate at a former scaffolding yard. Instead, they came up with their own unique idea to build a sustainable community. The mixed community divided the 2 acre plot up into 26 sections. The self-builders formed a cooperative, and met to design their homes together with their neighbours-to-be. These people weren’t builders. Many had no building experience at all. They were just a group of normal people, all with the same driving force. Their driving force was to make something new, unique, and most importantly eco-friendly.
By today’s standards the builds were somewhat primitive. There was at the time a lot less information on eco homes available. Timber frames were used and gypsum and cellulose. Cavity walls were filled with recycled newspaper! The homes were built around a community green and recycling centre. So, how about having your very own Eco Home build just down the road by a professional Eco Builder?
Why Choose a Clifton Builder for your New Eco Home
The story of Ashley Vale is compelling. It sees a community from mixed backgrounds and cultures, all clubbing together to make a sustainable community. A “Green” life without stress! An Eco home is a fantastic idea to keep Bristol in keeping with its title of European Green Capital. But, if you don’t fancy a self-build experience, or don’t have the same guts and ambition as the folk of Ashley Vale, let Bristol Builders Network find you a Clifton builder you can rely on to construct your very own Eco Home.