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Delivering Energy-Efficient Homes for North Star
Zero Carbon Group partnered with North Star to deliver a 3-year multi-measure scheme of works to transform properties which needed fabric upgrades across their housing stock.
Our initial scheme included 45 homes across 3 locations in the Darlington area.
Our mission as the principal contractor on this project was simple: to modernise housing stock, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the everyday living experience for residents.
Our solution
These homes had ageing roofs and outdated insulation. To meet both tenant needs and long-term sustainability goals, the project required multiple measures.
Following a comprehensive set of enabling works including plumbing, gas and electrical works, we set out to install retrofit measures including cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and silicone rendering, for improved energy efficiency and aesthetics.
Alongside this, a re-roofing programme across some of the properties was completed while ensuring exemplary health & safety standard, budget discipline, and minimal disruption to residents.

Putting tenants first
We know the success of any housing improvement project depends on how it’s experienced by residents. That’s why we appointed a dedicated Tenant Liaison Officer (TLO) to keep tenants informed and supported throughout the work. The TLO undertook weekly surveys, to ensure tenants’ feelings were heard and acted upon throughout the scheme as well as ensuring they had a dedicated way of contacting them whenever was needed.
The results from these surveys were measured by ourselves and North Star, and they confirmed a high level of tenant satisfaction.
Results that matter
This was a hugely successful contract for Zero Carbon Group, delivering a £1.3m project on time and within budget while also receiving a successful independent health & safety audit.
The project delivered enhanced energy efficiency across 45 homes, reducing maintenance needs for North Star and improved comfort and satisfaction for tenants.
Thoughts on the project
James Johnson Project Manager, Zero Carbon Group said:
“I’m incredibly proud of how our team worked in partnership with North Star to deliver a complex, multi-measure scheme on time and on budget. The transformation of these homes has not only enhanced their energy efficiency and reduced maintenance demands, but also created warmer, safer, and more comfortable living spaces for tenants.
It’s a great example of how collaboration and careful planning can deliver lasting benefits for both residents and housing providers.â€
Jason Crews, Director of Assets, Property and Sustainability, at North Star added:
“Our focus is always on our customers and the quality of their homes. Projects like this are vital in making sure our properties are not only safe and comfortable, but also energy-efficient and affordable. The success of this scheme highlights the strength of partnership working, enabling us to deliver real benefits for our customers today while moving closer to our ambition of achieving net zero.â€
By combining technical expertise with a strong focus on tenant care, Zero Carbon Group delivered a complete multi-measure scheme of works for North Star creating warmer, safer, and more efficient homes for its residents.