Sustainable construction plans approved for Liverpool hostel

Plans to transform a former Liverpool convent into an eco-friendly hostel for the homeless have been given the green light, which may encourage developers and architects to consider the use of sustainable construction products in their work.

Liverpool Mutual Homes (LMH) will redevelop Belvidere Road Family Centre into a modern base for homeless families, with green building products playing a key role in its environmentally-friendly creation.

In addition to photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on its roof for renewable electricity, the centre will also have flat-plate solar collectors and heat pumps to convert hot air into energy and provide hot water.

Councillor Joe Anderson, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: ''I very much welcome this development which will provide a modern centre for families in the greatest need. I also applaud the forward-thinking nature of this scheme with its emphasis on being eco-friendly.''

Last week, the BBC reported that Corby Borough Council was in talks with utility firms in a bid to have PV solar panels fitted to the Northamptonshire town's housing stock.

Posted by Robert Shields