Letter: Eco systems are a must for all new homes

SIR – Many hundreds of new houses are being built in the New Forest and many of these developments are being constructed on greenbelt land.

Whilst recognising there is a need for new housing in the area, I believe that we must take steps to ensure that these developments are sustainable and environmentally friendly.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to achieve this is by requiring all new builds to have solar panels, EV charging points, greywater and rainwater recovery systems.

These features not only reduce the carbon footprint of a home but also lead to significant cost savings for homeowners.

By requiring developers to install these systems at the time of construction, we can avoid the need for costly retrofitting in the future.

This will not only save homeowners money but also reduce the environmental impact of the building by minimising the amount of energy and resources required to make these changes.

Moreover, we cannot afford to continue building developments that do not take into account the pressing need to reduce carbon emissions and adapt to a changing climate.

By requiring all new builds in the New Forest to incorporate these features, New Forest District Council's planning department can demonstrate its commitment to sustainable development and become a leader in the fight against climate change.

I would urge NFDC to take action on this important issue and work towards implementing these requirements for all new-builds in the New Forest.

Terry Hewson,

Lymington