Sustainability
Environmental
What renewable energy is utilised at Heartlands? Well, we’ve used a top-down approach to reduce energy consumption within buildings where practically possible by improving insulation, reducing air permeability and adding draught lobbies. Throughout the development we’ve used energy efficient systems (low energy lighting) and renewable energy technologies (biomass district heating, solar photo-voltaics and wind turbine). Heartlands is currently on target to lower emissions through the proposed energy solutions and the Heartlands team hope to meet the remaining shortfall by investing in projects over the longer term that also provide benefits to the wider Cornish economy.
Sustainable design isn’t only about energy. Our consultants Buro Happold have devised a communal rainwater harvesting strategy that will use existing below ground storage structures to store rainwater collected from roofs across the site which will supplement toilet flushing demands, as well as irrigation demands and top-ups for water features. The combination of water efficient fixtures and fittings and the rainwater harvesting system should provide a 60% reduction in potable water demands. We’ve developed green leases with sustainable living clauses built in to support recycling and waste reduction.
Alongside the historic core of Heartlands, the new residential accommodation and business units have achieved BREEAM excellent rating levels – this is as green as it gets. The apartments meet Level 4 Code for Sustainable Homes, way beyond current building regulations standards.
The Park and Diaspora Gardens have the recycling of organic material at the centre of their horticulture. We capture and store rainwater, then use it to run the irrigation systems. Plants and trees have been selected as the result of significant research into native and acclimatised species.
Heartlands is a pedestrian friendly, low impact development - footpaths and cycle trails lead visitors through a succession of colourful gardens and green spaces, inviting further exploration of the surrounding countryside.
Economic
This is a visionary social enterprise project with a regional and national audience, so we go out of our way to champion local innovation. As a not-for-profit organisation Heartlands is designed to raise the profile of the area, make money to keep Heartlands in tip-top condition and develop it for the future benefit of the local community.
To pull this off, we therefore run Heartlands along commercial disciplines but with charitable objectives. An endowment from the Big Lottery Fund has been put aside to look after the park, play areas and public realm. The food, retail, lettings, parking and events will generate surpluses to support the running costs of the other parts of the site, principally the historic buildings.
Heartlands is a visible, social business in a public space. We offer low cost space for business and artists to be ambitious and creative in a vibrant new environment. With the large hall in the Chi an Bobel and attached seminar rooms, it is the perfect meeting ground for regional and national organisations.
Social
Heartlands brings together a radical mix of people. The site weaves existing community buildings and services in among uplifting new public spaces including market squares, children’s play areas, a village green, events arenas and gardens.
The site creates a safe and inclusive community hub that gives local residents improved access to essential services, and invites universal participation in community events to celebrate life in the heart of Cornwall.
From adventure areas to community gardening projects, Heartlands will provide a rich diversity of activities. Colourful festivals, theatre and music events promote a strong sense of place and cultural identity, with emphasis on local talent, innovation and resources.
Heartlands is here for the long-term good of the community. We hope to build lasting involvement through ongoing investment in local projects – evolving and adapting over time with the changing needs of all local residents.
