Case study cards
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Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2 Thanet: Revitalising high-rise living through sustainable retrofit
Contract overview Mears has been awarded the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2 contract, working in partnership with Thanet District Council, for the retrofit of five high-rise buildings in Thanet, with a contract value of £42 million. The project, which spans 24 months, involves major improvements to Kennedy House, Trove Court, Staner Court, Harbour Towers, and Invicta House. Scope of works The retrofit programme focuses on improving energy efficiency, fire safety and living standards which includes: Replacement of balcony doors, windows and communal glazing to enhance insulation and safety Upgrading storage heaters and improving ventilation systems to increase energy efficiency and air quality Removal and replacement of external cladding to meet current safety standards, funded by the Building Safety Grant Fire safety upgrades, including new communal and flat entrance fire doors and enhanced fire-stopping measures Improvements to balconies and redecoration of internal communal areas Outcomes and impact The project focused on significantly improving building safety and energy performance while enhancing resident comfort. SHDF funding supports windows, doors and ventilation upgrades, while the Building Safety Grant funds cladding remediation. Kennedy House and Trove Court have achieved an excellent 43/45 CCS (Considerate Constructors Scheme), reflecting high standards of quality, safety and environmental management. Mears has also donated 25 winter warmer packs to RISE. The Thanet RISE Project is a partnership between Thanet District Council, Serveco, Forward Trust, Invicta Health Care and DWP, forming a multi-agency team to work with those who are rough sleeping and most in need of support. Resident Feedback (Harbour Towers): “I wanted to take the time to compliment the work being done at Harbour Towers. The site team has been very professional and tidy. Despite the bad weather, they’ve made great progress, and the work is being carried out with minimal disruption to the area. I’m really impressed with how hard-working and efficient the team has been given the challenges of the tight building footprint. ”
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2.2: Delivering energy-efficient homes in Thurrock
Contract overview Mears Group was awarded the £10.5m Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.2 retrofit contract in Thurrock to upgrade 181 homes between August 2025 and May 2026. Scope of works The retrofit programme is designed to improve energy performance, comfort and sustainability. Key upgrades include: External wall insulation to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills Facade repairs to strengthen and enhance the appearance of homes Loft insulation to improve thermal efficiency Upgraded ventilation systems to support healthier indoor air quality Replacement of windows and doors with modern, energy-efficient units Installation of LED lighting to cut energy use and carbon emissions Outcomes and impact Residents reported warmer, more comfortable homes and reduced heating costs. The project has achieved an excellent 44/45 customer care score (CCS) score, reflecting high standards of safety, quality and community engagement. Alongside physical improvements, the project has delivered strong social value by refurbishing the Flowers Community Hall kitchen, installing a community defibrillator, donating 20 winter warmer packs to Friends of Essex Homeless Charity, and redecorating two community centres to create more welcoming local spaces. Maltings resident commented: "I’ve noticed a huge difference in the warmth of my home since the retrofit works were completed. It’s much cosier now, and I no longer need to keep the heating on all the time." Foxglove resident said: "The upgrades to my windows and insulation have made such a positive difference. It’s so much warmer, and I’m already seeing a reduction in my heating bills." Orchard resident added: "I can’t believe how much warmer my home is now! The team were incredibly friendly and professional throughout, and the work was completed with minimal disruption."
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
Delivering decarbonisation at scale: SHDF Wave 2.1 in partnership with South Cambridgeshire District Council
Contract overview Mears Group and South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) transformed 237 rural homes through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.1 funding, delivering major Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) improvements, carbon reduction and average annual savings of £597 per household. A data-led approach guided the selection of homes, with 443 retrofit surveys conducted to ensure funding was targeted for maximum benefit. By January 2026, 130 homes had been surveyed with 128 achieving EPC C and two reaching EPC B, significantly enhancing the energy efficiency of the council’s housing stock. Scope of works All works complied with PAS2035 standards and included: Loft and cavity wall insulation Double glazing Solar PV and LED lighting Ventilation and heating efficiency upgrades Integrated delivery between retrofit and responsive maintenance teams ensured efficient sequencing, rapid resolution of issues such as damp and mould, and minimal disruption for residents. Digital compliance systems, geotagged photographic evidence, and staff training supported quality assurance. Dedicated on-site management and a Resident Liaison Officer ensured strong customer communication was maintained and adjustments for households were made, where required. Outcomes and impact The programme is projected to save 232.96 tCO₂e and reduce annual energy consumption by 231,945 kWh, directly supporting SCDC’s decarbonisation goals. While initial modelling forecast annual bill savings of £138 per household, actual average savings reached £597, over four times higher than expected, providing significant financial relief. Homes are now warmer, healthier, and more comfortable, with improved thermal performance and indoor air quality. Addressing damp and mould alongside retrofit measures strengthened overall housing condition and tenant wellbeing. Testimonials “This programme has made an incredible difference to our homes and residents’ daily lives. Comfort and warmth have improved, energy bills have dropped, and homes feel healthier. The team worked professionally, kept residents informed, and adapted to challenges with care.” Eddie Spicer, Service Manager – Housing Assets, South Cambridgeshire District Council
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2 Thanet: Revitalising high-rise living through sustainable retrofit
Contract overview Mears has been awarded the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2 contract, working in partnership with Thanet District Council, for the retrofit of five high-rise buildings in Thanet, with a contract value of £42 million. The project, which spans 24 months, involves major improvements to Kennedy House, Trove Court, Staner Court, Harbour Towers, and Invicta House. Scope of works The retrofit programme focuses on improving energy efficiency, fire safety and living standards which includes: Replacement of balcony doors, windows and communal glazing to enhance insulation and safety Upgrading storage heaters and improving ventilation systems to increase energy efficiency and air quality Removal and replacement of external cladding to meet current safety standards, funded by the Building Safety Grant Fire safety upgrades, including new communal and flat entrance fire doors and enhanced fire-stopping measures Improvements to balconies and redecoration of internal communal areas Outcomes and impact The project focused on significantly improving building safety and energy performance while enhancing resident comfort. SHDF funding supports windows, doors and ventilation upgrades, while the Building Safety Grant funds cladding remediation. Kennedy House and Trove Court have achieved an excellent 43/45 CCS (Considerate Constructors Scheme), reflecting high standards of quality, safety and environmental management. Mears has also donated 25 winter warmer packs to RISE. The Thanet RISE Project is a partnership between Thanet District Council, Serveco, Forward Trust, Invicta Health Care and DWP, forming a multi-agency team to work with those who are rough sleeping and most in need of support. Resident Feedback (Harbour Towers): “I wanted to take the time to compliment the work being done at Harbour Towers. The site team has been very professional and tidy. Despite the bad weather, they’ve made great progress, and the work is being carried out with minimal disruption to the area. I’m really impressed with how hard-working and efficient the team has been given the challenges of the tight building footprint. ”
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2.2: Delivering energy-efficient homes in Thurrock
Contract overview Mears Group was awarded the £10.5m Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.2 retrofit contract in Thurrock to upgrade 181 homes between August 2025 and May 2026. Scope of works The retrofit programme is designed to improve energy performance, comfort and sustainability. Key upgrades include: External wall insulation to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills Facade repairs to strengthen and enhance the appearance of homes Loft insulation to improve thermal efficiency Upgraded ventilation systems to support healthier indoor air quality Replacement of windows and doors with modern, energy-efficient units Installation of LED lighting to cut energy use and carbon emissions Outcomes and impact Residents reported warmer, more comfortable homes and reduced heating costs. The project has achieved an excellent 44/45 customer care score (CCS) score, reflecting high standards of safety, quality and community engagement. Alongside physical improvements, the project has delivered strong social value by refurbishing the Flowers Community Hall kitchen, installing a community defibrillator, donating 20 winter warmer packs to Friends of Essex Homeless Charity, and redecorating two community centres to create more welcoming local spaces. Maltings resident commented: "I’ve noticed a huge difference in the warmth of my home since the retrofit works were completed. It’s much cosier now, and I no longer need to keep the heating on all the time." Foxglove resident said: "The upgrades to my windows and insulation have made such a positive difference. It’s so much warmer, and I’m already seeing a reduction in my heating bills." Orchard resident added: "I can’t believe how much warmer my home is now! The team were incredibly friendly and professional throughout, and the work was completed with minimal disruption."
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
Delivering decarbonisation at scale: SHDF Wave 2.1 in partnership with South Cambridgeshire District Council
Contract overview Mears Group and South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) transformed 237 rural homes through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.1 funding, delivering major Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) improvements, carbon reduction and average annual savings of £597 per household. A data-led approach guided the selection of homes, with 443 retrofit surveys conducted to ensure funding was targeted for maximum benefit. By January 2026, 130 homes had been surveyed with 128 achieving EPC C and two reaching EPC B, significantly enhancing the energy efficiency of the council’s housing stock. Scope of works All works complied with PAS2035 standards and included: Loft and cavity wall insulation Double glazing Solar PV and LED lighting Ventilation and heating efficiency upgrades Integrated delivery between retrofit and responsive maintenance teams ensured efficient sequencing, rapid resolution of issues such as damp and mould, and minimal disruption for residents. Digital compliance systems, geotagged photographic evidence, and staff training supported quality assurance. Dedicated on-site management and a Resident Liaison Officer ensured strong customer communication was maintained and adjustments for households were made, where required. Outcomes and impact The programme is projected to save 232.96 tCO₂e and reduce annual energy consumption by 231,945 kWh, directly supporting SCDC’s decarbonisation goals. While initial modelling forecast annual bill savings of £138 per household, actual average savings reached £597, over four times higher than expected, providing significant financial relief. Homes are now warmer, healthier, and more comfortable, with improved thermal performance and indoor air quality. Addressing damp and mould alongside retrofit measures strengthened overall housing condition and tenant wellbeing. Testimonials “This programme has made an incredible difference to our homes and residents’ daily lives. Comfort and warmth have improved, energy bills have dropped, and homes feel healthier. The team worked professionally, kept residents informed, and adapted to challenges with care.” Eddie Spicer, Service Manager – Housing Assets, South Cambridgeshire District Council
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2 Thanet: Revitalising high-rise living through sustainable retrofit
Contract overview Mears has been awarded the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2 contract, working in partnership with Thanet District Council, for the retrofit of five high-rise buildings in Thanet, with a contract value of £42 million. The project, which spans 24 months, involves major improvements to Kennedy House, Trove Court, Staner Court, Harbour Towers, and Invicta House. Scope of works The retrofit programme focuses on improving energy efficiency, fire safety and living standards which includes: Replacement of balcony doors, windows and communal glazing to enhance insulation and safety Upgrading storage heaters and improving ventilation systems to increase energy efficiency and air quality Removal and replacement of external cladding to meet current safety standards, funded by the Building Safety Grant Fire safety upgrades, including new communal and flat entrance fire doors and enhanced fire-stopping measures Improvements to balconies and redecoration of internal communal areas Outcomes and impact The project focused on significantly improving building safety and energy performance while enhancing resident comfort. SHDF funding supports windows, doors and ventilation upgrades, while the Building Safety Grant funds cladding remediation. Kennedy House and Trove Court have achieved an excellent 43/45 CCS (Considerate Constructors Scheme), reflecting high standards of quality, safety and environmental management. Mears has also donated 25 winter warmer packs to RISE. The Thanet RISE Project is a partnership between Thanet District Council, Serveco, Forward Trust, Invicta Health Care and DWP, forming a multi-agency team to work with those who are rough sleeping and most in need of support. Resident Feedback (Harbour Towers): “I wanted to take the time to compliment the work being done at Harbour Towers. The site team has been very professional and tidy. Despite the bad weather, they’ve made great progress, and the work is being carried out with minimal disruption to the area. I’m really impressed with how hard-working and efficient the team has been given the challenges of the tight building footprint. ”
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2.2: Delivering energy-efficient homes in Thurrock
Contract overview Mears Group was awarded the £10.5m Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.2 retrofit contract in Thurrock to upgrade 181 homes between August 2025 and May 2026. Scope of works The retrofit programme is designed to improve energy performance, comfort and sustainability. Key upgrades include: External wall insulation to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills Facade repairs to strengthen and enhance the appearance of homes Loft insulation to improve thermal efficiency Upgraded ventilation systems to support healthier indoor air quality Replacement of windows and doors with modern, energy-efficient units Installation of LED lighting to cut energy use and carbon emissions Outcomes and impact Residents reported warmer, more comfortable homes and reduced heating costs. The project has achieved an excellent 44/45 customer care score (CCS) score, reflecting high standards of safety, quality and community engagement. Alongside physical improvements, the project has delivered strong social value by refurbishing the Flowers Community Hall kitchen, installing a community defibrillator, donating 20 winter warmer packs to Friends of Essex Homeless Charity, and redecorating two community centres to create more welcoming local spaces. Maltings resident commented: "I’ve noticed a huge difference in the warmth of my home since the retrofit works were completed. It’s much cosier now, and I no longer need to keep the heating on all the time." Foxglove resident said: "The upgrades to my windows and insulation have made such a positive difference. It’s so much warmer, and I’m already seeing a reduction in my heating bills." Orchard resident added: "I can’t believe how much warmer my home is now! The team were incredibly friendly and professional throughout, and the work was completed with minimal disruption."
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
Delivering decarbonisation at scale: SHDF Wave 2.1 in partnership with South Cambridgeshire District Council
Contract overview Mears Group and South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) transformed 237 rural homes through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.1 funding, delivering major Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) improvements, carbon reduction and average annual savings of £597 per household. A data-led approach guided the selection of homes, with 443 retrofit surveys conducted to ensure funding was targeted for maximum benefit. By January 2026, 130 homes had been surveyed with 128 achieving EPC C and two reaching EPC B, significantly enhancing the energy efficiency of the council’s housing stock. Scope of works All works complied with PAS2035 standards and included: Loft and cavity wall insulation Double glazing Solar PV and LED lighting Ventilation and heating efficiency upgrades Integrated delivery between retrofit and responsive maintenance teams ensured efficient sequencing, rapid resolution of issues such as damp and mould, and minimal disruption for residents. Digital compliance systems, geotagged photographic evidence, and staff training supported quality assurance. Dedicated on-site management and a Resident Liaison Officer ensured strong customer communication was maintained and adjustments for households were made, where required. Outcomes and impact The programme is projected to save 232.96 tCO₂e and reduce annual energy consumption by 231,945 kWh, directly supporting SCDC’s decarbonisation goals. While initial modelling forecast annual bill savings of £138 per household, actual average savings reached £597, over four times higher than expected, providing significant financial relief. Homes are now warmer, healthier, and more comfortable, with improved thermal performance and indoor air quality. Addressing damp and mould alongside retrofit measures strengthened overall housing condition and tenant wellbeing. Testimonials “This programme has made an incredible difference to our homes and residents’ daily lives. Comfort and warmth have improved, energy bills have dropped, and homes feel healthier. The team worked professionally, kept residents informed, and adapted to challenges with care.” Eddie Spicer, Service Manager – Housing Assets, South Cambridgeshire District Council
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2 Thanet: Revitalising high-rise living through sustainable retrofit
Contract overview Mears has been awarded the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2 contract, working in partnership with Thanet District Council, for the retrofit of five high-rise buildings in Thanet, with a contract value of £42 million. The project, which spans 24 months, involves major improvements to Kennedy House, Trove Court, Staner Court, Harbour Towers, and Invicta House. Scope of works The retrofit programme focuses on improving energy efficiency, fire safety and living standards which includes: Replacement of balcony doors, windows and communal glazing to enhance insulation and safety Upgrading storage heaters and improving ventilation systems to increase energy efficiency and air quality Removal and replacement of external cladding to meet current safety standards, funded by the Building Safety Grant Fire safety upgrades, including new communal and flat entrance fire doors and enhanced fire-stopping measures Improvements to balconies and redecoration of internal communal areas Outcomes and impact The project focused on significantly improving building safety and energy performance while enhancing resident comfort. SHDF funding supports windows, doors and ventilation upgrades, while the Building Safety Grant funds cladding remediation. Kennedy House and Trove Court have achieved an excellent 43/45 CCS (Considerate Constructors Scheme), reflecting high standards of quality, safety and environmental management. Mears has also donated 25 winter warmer packs to RISE. The Thanet RISE Project is a partnership between Thanet District Council, Serveco, Forward Trust, Invicta Health Care and DWP, forming a multi-agency team to work with those who are rough sleeping and most in need of support. Resident Feedback (Harbour Towers): “I wanted to take the time to compliment the work being done at Harbour Towers. The site team has been very professional and tidy. Despite the bad weather, they’ve made great progress, and the work is being carried out with minimal disruption to the area. I’m really impressed with how hard-working and efficient the team has been given the challenges of the tight building footprint. ”
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2.2: Delivering energy-efficient homes in Thurrock
Contract overview Mears Group was awarded the £10.5m Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.2 retrofit contract in Thurrock to upgrade 181 homes between August 2025 and May 2026. Scope of works The retrofit programme is designed to improve energy performance, comfort and sustainability. Key upgrades include: External wall insulation to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills Facade repairs to strengthen and enhance the appearance of homes Loft insulation to improve thermal efficiency Upgraded ventilation systems to support healthier indoor air quality Replacement of windows and doors with modern, energy-efficient units Installation of LED lighting to cut energy use and carbon emissions Outcomes and impact Residents reported warmer, more comfortable homes and reduced heating costs. The project has achieved an excellent 44/45 customer care score (CCS) score, reflecting high standards of safety, quality and community engagement. Alongside physical improvements, the project has delivered strong social value by refurbishing the Flowers Community Hall kitchen, installing a community defibrillator, donating 20 winter warmer packs to Friends of Essex Homeless Charity, and redecorating two community centres to create more welcoming local spaces. Maltings resident commented: "I’ve noticed a huge difference in the warmth of my home since the retrofit works were completed. It’s much cosier now, and I no longer need to keep the heating on all the time." Foxglove resident said: "The upgrades to my windows and insulation have made such a positive difference. It’s so much warmer, and I’m already seeing a reduction in my heating bills." Orchard resident added: "I can’t believe how much warmer my home is now! The team were incredibly friendly and professional throughout, and the work was completed with minimal disruption."
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
Delivering decarbonisation at scale: SHDF Wave 2.1 in partnership with South Cambridgeshire District Council
Contract overview Mears Group and South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) transformed 237 rural homes through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.1 funding, delivering major Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) improvements, carbon reduction and average annual savings of £597 per household. A data-led approach guided the selection of homes, with 443 retrofit surveys conducted to ensure funding was targeted for maximum benefit. By January 2026, 130 homes had been surveyed with 128 achieving EPC C and two reaching EPC B, significantly enhancing the energy efficiency of the council’s housing stock. Scope of works All works complied with PAS2035 standards and included: Loft and cavity wall insulation Double glazing Solar PV and LED lighting Ventilation and heating efficiency upgrades Integrated delivery between retrofit and responsive maintenance teams ensured efficient sequencing, rapid resolution of issues such as damp and mould, and minimal disruption for residents. Digital compliance systems, geotagged photographic evidence, and staff training supported quality assurance. Dedicated on-site management and a Resident Liaison Officer ensured strong customer communication was maintained and adjustments for households were made, where required. Outcomes and impact The programme is projected to save 232.96 tCO₂e and reduce annual energy consumption by 231,945 kWh, directly supporting SCDC’s decarbonisation goals. While initial modelling forecast annual bill savings of £138 per household, actual average savings reached £597, over four times higher than expected, providing significant financial relief. Homes are now warmer, healthier, and more comfortable, with improved thermal performance and indoor air quality. Addressing damp and mould alongside retrofit measures strengthened overall housing condition and tenant wellbeing. Testimonials “This programme has made an incredible difference to our homes and residents’ daily lives. Comfort and warmth have improved, energy bills have dropped, and homes feel healthier. The team worked professionally, kept residents informed, and adapted to challenges with care.” Eddie Spicer, Service Manager – Housing Assets, South Cambridgeshire District Council
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2 Thanet: Revitalising high-rise living through sustainable retrofit
Contract overview Mears has been awarded the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2 contract, working in partnership with Thanet District Council, for the retrofit of five high-rise buildings in Thanet, with a contract value of £42 million. The project, which spans 24 months, involves major improvements to Kennedy House, Trove Court, Staner Court, Harbour Towers, and Invicta House. Scope of works The retrofit programme focuses on improving energy efficiency, fire safety and living standards which includes: Replacement of balcony doors, windows and communal glazing to enhance insulation and safety Upgrading storage heaters and improving ventilation systems to increase energy efficiency and air quality Removal and replacement of external cladding to meet current safety standards, funded by the Building Safety Grant Fire safety upgrades, including new communal and flat entrance fire doors and enhanced fire-stopping measures Improvements to balconies and redecoration of internal communal areas Outcomes and impact The project focused on significantly improving building safety and energy performance while enhancing resident comfort. SHDF funding supports windows, doors and ventilation upgrades, while the Building Safety Grant funds cladding remediation. Kennedy House and Trove Court have achieved an excellent 43/45 CCS (Considerate Constructors Scheme), reflecting high standards of quality, safety and environmental management. Mears has also donated 25 winter warmer packs to RISE. The Thanet RISE Project is a partnership between Thanet District Council, Serveco, Forward Trust, Invicta Health Care and DWP, forming a multi-agency team to work with those who are rough sleeping and most in need of support. Resident Feedback (Harbour Towers): “I wanted to take the time to compliment the work being done at Harbour Towers. The site team has been very professional and tidy. Despite the bad weather, they’ve made great progress, and the work is being carried out with minimal disruption to the area. I’m really impressed with how hard-working and efficient the team has been given the challenges of the tight building footprint. ”
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
SHDF Wave 2.2: Delivering energy-efficient homes in Thurrock
Contract overview Mears Group was awarded the £10.5m Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.2 retrofit contract in Thurrock to upgrade 181 homes between August 2025 and May 2026. Scope of works The retrofit programme is designed to improve energy performance, comfort and sustainability. Key upgrades include: External wall insulation to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills Facade repairs to strengthen and enhance the appearance of homes Loft insulation to improve thermal efficiency Upgraded ventilation systems to support healthier indoor air quality Replacement of windows and doors with modern, energy-efficient units Installation of LED lighting to cut energy use and carbon emissions Outcomes and impact Residents reported warmer, more comfortable homes and reduced heating costs. The project has achieved an excellent 44/45 customer care score (CCS) score, reflecting high standards of safety, quality and community engagement. Alongside physical improvements, the project has delivered strong social value by refurbishing the Flowers Community Hall kitchen, installing a community defibrillator, donating 20 winter warmer packs to Friends of Essex Homeless Charity, and redecorating two community centres to create more welcoming local spaces. Maltings resident commented: "I’ve noticed a huge difference in the warmth of my home since the retrofit works were completed. It’s much cosier now, and I no longer need to keep the heating on all the time." Foxglove resident said: "The upgrades to my windows and insulation have made such a positive difference. It’s so much warmer, and I’m already seeing a reduction in my heating bills." Orchard resident added: "I can’t believe how much warmer my home is now! The team were incredibly friendly and professional throughout, and the work was completed with minimal disruption."
Healthy Planet
Local Government
Housing Maintenance
Delivering decarbonisation at scale: SHDF Wave 2.1 in partnership with South Cambridgeshire District Council
Contract overview Mears Group and South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC) transformed 237 rural homes through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2.1 funding, delivering major Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) improvements, carbon reduction and average annual savings of £597 per household. A data-led approach guided the selection of homes, with 443 retrofit surveys conducted to ensure funding was targeted for maximum benefit. By January 2026, 130 homes had been surveyed with 128 achieving EPC C and two reaching EPC B, significantly enhancing the energy efficiency of the council’s housing stock. Scope of works All works complied with PAS2035 standards and included: Loft and cavity wall insulation Double glazing Solar PV and LED lighting Ventilation and heating efficiency upgrades Integrated delivery between retrofit and responsive maintenance teams ensured efficient sequencing, rapid resolution of issues such as damp and mould, and minimal disruption for residents. Digital compliance systems, geotagged photographic evidence, and staff training supported quality assurance. Dedicated on-site management and a Resident Liaison Officer ensured strong customer communication was maintained and adjustments for households were made, where required. Outcomes and impact The programme is projected to save 232.96 tCO₂e and reduce annual energy consumption by 231,945 kWh, directly supporting SCDC’s decarbonisation goals. While initial modelling forecast annual bill savings of £138 per household, actual average savings reached £597, over four times higher than expected, providing significant financial relief. Homes are now warmer, healthier, and more comfortable, with improved thermal performance and indoor air quality. Addressing damp and mould alongside retrofit measures strengthened overall housing condition and tenant wellbeing. Testimonials “This programme has made an incredible difference to our homes and residents’ daily lives. Comfort and warmth have improved, energy bills have dropped, and homes feel healthier. The team worked professionally, kept residents informed, and adapted to challenges with care.” Eddie Spicer, Service Manager – Housing Assets, South Cambridgeshire District Council