Situation
A former velodrome site in an urban area presented clear potential for regeneration and creation of vital homes. For years the site off Saffron Lane had been underutilised. This was despite it being adjacent to established neighbourhoods. Transformation began with the delivery of 38 new homes, renewing local confidence in the area’s future and aiding housing supply.
The project was a part of Leicester City Council’s housing programme. As such, our work set out to deliver energy efficient affordable homes that simultaneously support the city’s sustainability, accessibility, and social value objectives. All of this would maximise long-term benefits for residents and community.
Project insight
We led with a fabric-first approach, using modular house types and repeatable, high-performance details.
Through carefully listening to and understanding our project partners, we shaped a solution which directly addresses the council’s dual priorities:
- Reliably delivering inclusive, adaptable homes at scale
- Achieving substantial carbon reductions which underpin Leicester’s climate commitments.
Project idea
Our design was guided by principles of fabric-first performance and universal accessibility – prioritising efficiency, comfort, and adaptability for all residents.
Modular house types were introduced and carefully arranged to create a welcoming neighbourhood. Our homes balance repeatable, robust detailing with flexible layouts. Taken as a whole, this enabled strong placemaking and intuitive navigation.
“A+G were selected to progress phase 2 at the Saffron Lane site, having successfully completed the first phase of this ambitious Leicester City Council house building scheme. This was an unused patch of land in a city in which space for development is at a premium and need for additional housing is great. Having affordable, accessible homes that stay warm in winter at low cost will make a huge difference to residents. These homes show what’s possible when good communication and careful understanding meets good design and effective delivery.”
Simon Nicholls
Head of Service Housing Division, Leicester City Council
Project design
Saffron Lane’s new neighbourhood features a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom houses. These sit alongside 10 wheelchair-accessible bungalows that are thoughtfully designed for inclusive living.
Modular design supports efficiency in public expenditure, enabling efficient procurement and buildability. Standardisation details range from coordinated bathroom and MEP zones to reinforced fixings.
The development saves 67 tonnes of carbon annually. As well as being the right thing for the environment, this means lower energy bills for residents. All homes benefit from super-insulated fabric, triple-glazed windows, and enhanced airtightness for year-round comfort and reduced energy costs. Integrated solar PV and air source heat pumps deliver reliable low-carbon heating and renewable energy. Durable, low-maintenance materials ensure longevity, ease of care, and sustained performance.
Technical consistency and risk management were upheld through model-based coordination. Early, structured collaboration across council services, contractor and residents optimised the interface between layouts, accessibility, and public realm. Collaboration throughout the project ensured delivery of a new, high-quality sustainable community for Leicester to be proud of.
