Is an area-based approach the future of retrofit delivery?
We recently contributed to a webinar hosted by Futurebuild, which focused on the Warm Homes plan and the potential value of an area-based approach to retrofit delivery. The event explored how local authorities and delivery partners can make best use of learnings from the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) to support long-term housing and climate goals.
Derek Horrocks, our Chair and Owner, represented SBS during the session, drawing on our experience delivering large-scale retrofit schemes in partnership with ambitious local authorities and housing providers driven by resident wellbeing and climate action.
A model for mixed-tenure, blended-funded delivery
The webinar offered us a platform to highlight the success of our work with Rykneld Homes, which has led to one of the largest independently delivered SHDF Wave 2.1 programmes in England. Completed on time and on budget in March 2025, the scheme saw more than 640 properties upgraded with energy efficiency measures such as external wall insulation and replacement windows, ensuring all homes reached EPC C or above.
The partnership, which spans more than seven years, is built around early collaboration, clear communication and shared ambition. Together with Rykneld Homes, we’ve improved the lives of over 1,600 residents while helping inject more than £5.4 million into the local supply chain. The scheme has also supported new jobs, training placements and local community initiatives.
Sharing best practice with the sector
Futurebuild’s webinar offered an opportunity to reflect on the importance of early-stage planning, trusted partnerships and compliance with PAS and MCS standards. Lessons shared included the role of property data in effective procurement, the need for household engagement at every stage and the value of coordinated planning across tenure types.
Speaking about our participation in the online event, Derek said: “It’s vital that we continue to share real-world examples of what works in retrofit delivery. We know that achieving scale is possible when partnerships are built on trust, and when funding is used in a way that benefits both social housing tenants and private homeowners. Our collaboration with Rykneld Homes proves that area-based approach is not only achievable but delivers real, lasting value for residents and communities.”
Looking ahead to Wave 3 and beyond
We are now working with Rykneld Homes and North East Derbyshire District Council to deliver further energy efficiency improvements through funding from Warm Homes: Social Housing Wave 3 and Warm Homes: Local Grant. With nearly £9 million secured to support a further 678 homes across social and private tenures, we remain focused on delivering integrated, community-first retrofit projects.
As part of our ongoing commitment to sector improvement, we continue to share insights and lessons through forums like Futurebuild and the National Home Decarbonisation Group (NHDG). We look forward to working with partners old and new to scale up retrofit delivery and support the UK’s path to net zero.
For more news and updates, visit https://www.sustainablebuildinguk.com/news
