Developer helps buyers lower their carbon footprint

The effect of carbon emissions on the environment and the size of the UK’s carbon footprint is one of the biggest causes for concern this year. Burning fuel for energy results in an increase in our footprint whether that’s through heating or lighting our homes to travelling around the country. Next to flying, travelling by car is one of the biggest contributors to increasing carbon emissions.

Owning a car in London can also be very expensive, so in a bid to discourage homeowners from purchasing cars, Inspace Homes is offering all purchasers at Blue, the developers latest scheme with joint venture partner Circle Anglia in Islington, N1, 12 months free membership to Streetcar, the car club scheme supported by Islington Council.

Streetcar offers a fleet of Volkswagen Golfs, which are parked throughout the borough. Once registered with the scheme, residents receive a chip and pin swipe card. To use a vehicle, a resident simply books use of a car online or via the phone. They are then sent a text or email with directions to the bay where the car is parked. Upon arrival, the resident simply swipes their chip and pin card in the card reader located in the windscreen to unlock the car and begin using it. Streetcar sends residents just one bill per month based on how long the car has been used for and how far it has been driven. Use of the scheme costs just £4.95 per hour.

Located on Sherbourne Street, Blue comprises 28 contemporary apartments set within a four-storey building that blends wood, brick and glass and has been designed by Grafik Architecture. Half of the homes at the development have already been sold.

The properties range in size from 460 sq ft for a one-bedroom apartment and rise to 650 sq ft for a two bedroom apartment. The layouts feature contemporary open plan living areas that benefit from laminate flooring and plenty of natural light provided by the extensive use of glazing within the development.

Purchasers can choose between either high gloss or wood fitted ‘pod’ kitchens from Pepper, which come complete with a full range of integrated appliances including an AEG stainless steel oven, hob and extractor hood. White Porcelanosa sanitaryware, chrome fixtures and fittings including an electric heated towel rail and ceramic wall and floor tiling creates a tranquil and calming bathroom. The apartments also boast carpet in the bedrooms.

Blue is well located for access into the City and the West End. The development is situated within easy reach of the Angel Underground station on the Northern line and Highbury and Islington on the Victoria line. Travel to the City takes approximately 30 minutes. Purchasers at the development will also automatically receive 12 months free membership to the car club scheme running at Blue.

Islington is a vibrant and cosmopolitan area that offers a buzzing atmosphere and a wealth of bars, cafes and restaurants on nearby Upper Street. Chapel Market is also located close to Blue and offers clothes, fresh produce and homewares. Alternatively those in search of antiques and decorative arts should head towards The Mall, which houses over 35 retailers.

Building work has already started and the first completions are expected in 2008. Prices start from £277,500.

For further sales information, visit Blue-n1.co.uk.