Cartwright
Pickard

Shepherds Leas is a sustainable, inclusive and community-focused housing development in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, comprising 62 apartments for discount market rent.

Located at the intersection of Rochester Way, Riefield Road and the A2 dual carriageway in Falconwood, the development brings a former brownfield site into wide community use and improves the local landscape.

The design features terracotta cladding and gabion walls to blend with the natural environment and surrounding woodland, creating a distinct local identity.

Sustainability is a core principle, with low embodied carbon and circular economy principles and best practice guiding the project and its various solutions.

The energy strategy includes air source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, and Passivhaus principles, achieving Net Zero carbon in use and without carbon offset payments and at a significantly lower capital cost than traditional solutions.

The heating system also offers active cooling in the summer.

Housing provision includes a high proportion of larger 3 and 4-bedroom family homes and 10% wheelchair accessible homes, addressing local needs.

Transport and mobility facilities, such as large cycle stores, electric vehicle charging stations, and an on-site car club to promote sustainable transport and active travel.

Community and environmental enhancements include improved landscaping, a large communal garden with children’s play spaces, net biodiversity gain, and urban greening to support wildlife.

These features provide attractive, functional homes which foster a strong sense of community.