Campaigners back plan for eight green park homes

If the Peak District National Park Authority approves the plans, six houses and two bungalows could be built at Conksbury Lane on the edge of Youlgrave, near Bakewell.

The north, east and west walls would have small windows and would be highly insulated to reduce loss of heat. The southern facing walls would have large double-glazed windows to harness heat from the sun.

Deciduous trees would be planted in front to provide shade in the summer but allow in daylight during the rest of the year.

The planning officer at pressure group Friends of the Peak District, John King, said: "This is a great little scheme.

"We love the passive solar heating – it's a brilliant green design feature, but we also think the houses would fit in the national park well.

"They would be built of natural stone and incorporate traditional features such as stone lintels and sills, so they would suit this Peak District limestone village."

Mr King said it was equally important the houses will meet a vital demand for more affordable homes in and around Youlgrave and added: "According to a survey done by Derbyshire Dales District Council, there's a need for nine new dwellings in the village, so they are crucial for local people."

Friends of the Peak District said it was also satisfied the site is the best place for the houses. Other possible locations were either unsuitable in planning terms, or else the landowners wouldn't sell.

Mr King said:"There was a thorough search of the village. Although this is a greenfield site, it's right between existing houses and bungalows, and won't significantly spoil landscape views."

The plans are also supported by both Sustainable Youlgrave and Youlgrave Parish Council. The Peak District National Park Authority is expected to make a decision on the application in the next few months.