Strategic Team Group has been awarded a GBP865k contract with Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust for part design and build of six futuristic, new sustainable homes.

The innovative sustainable development is to take place in New Earswick, York, and represents the penultimate stage of a competition launched by JRHT in 2005 called ' Suburban Housing for the 21st Century'. The competition was looking to find a reusable design that would enable the Trust to create affordable, replicable, sustainable solutions to 21st century suburban housing; whilst demonstrating that high quality 'intelligent and green' homes can be affordable, attractive and enhance neighbourhoods.

STG will provide part design and full build services on the project, taking into account the need for the six properties to be adaptable, low energy and low maintenance.

STG will be using timber panelling and off-site fabrication methods that respond to orientation, sunlight and daylight; and ensuring Lifetime Homes principles are cohered to throughout the build.

Nigel Ingram, Director of Development at Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust, said: 'The strategy behind the project was to develop homes that are both for the present and for the future'.

'This way we are allowing for environmental changes as well as home-life and working pattern changes within the family'.

'We believe that the majority of the features of these new properties should be standard for all new homes as they offer better long-term value than current schemes and address real 21st century issues'.

Once complete the Trust aims to use the properties as a model for future low-energy, sustainable, affordable suburban housing and residents will benefit from lower heating and water bills; less CO2 emissions; natural daylight and ventilation; excellent sound separation and healthier indoor environments.

The Trust was established in 1904 (then named the Joseph Rowntree Village Trust) and is a York-based charity and registered social landlord.

JRHT is part of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and owns the freehold of nearly all properties in New Earswick.

In addition to providing good quality, affordable housing JRHT also tests out new ideas and approaches to housing, care and sustainable communities in order to demonstrate new forms of tenure, meet special needs and explore new features of design.

Strategic Team Group (Strategic Team Maintenance ) is one of the UK's fastest growing suppliers of building property services.

Since its inception in 2000, the company has developed a culture and a reputation for delivering service excellence and a sound customer base.

Strategic Team Group now has a turnover of circa GBP20m, employing over 120 employees and boasting a strong financial position.

In 2006 STG was awarded three National Business Awards in the Regional Finals, representing a first for any competing organisation.

STG was also recognised by Fast Track 100 as the UK's 63rd fastest growing private company and was selected as a finalist in Contract Journal's Best Company to Work For Awards and the Growing Business Awards.