Innovative US solution to affordable housing problem

17-Feb-2006

Affordable housing problems in the UK could be helped with the introduction of a US style of housing which utilises the energy efficiency of straw.

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The increased cost of building materials and energy costs has led many aspiring homeowners in America to purchase a property constructed of straw-bale, reports the Move Channel website.

Over 600 of the homes have been built across California, with first time buyers attracted by the energy efficiency and insulation benefits of the houses, leading to suggestions that the UK property market needs more innovation.

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Homeowners can choose whether to construct the properties themselves or to allow the professionals to do it, while the straw walls are protected with earth plaster and made safe for habitation.

Supporters of the initiative acknowledge the difficulties in transferring the idea to the UK, pointing out that it works best in rural areas, but suggest that it is merely a starting point for more modern and innovative ideas to be developed to solve the affordable housing problem.

First time buyers often choose to go down alternative routes such as houseboats, pre-fab properties and more recently, converted double-decker buses.

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