We launched the ‘eco-retrofit’ of a Victorian cottage in Aldford on the Eaton Estate, Cheshire, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint and make it more energy efficient. 

Collaborating with leading experts, the scheme will make the property more environmentally and economically sustainable as well as more compatible with modern family living.  

The knowledge built from this project will develop a template for the future refurbishment of our rural estates properties as we work towards our net zero carbon targets.  

The works are being carried out by the estate’s expert staff as well as specialist craftspeople, helping to promote heritage skills. Energy efficient technologies like air source heat pumps, which absorb heat from the air to provide central heating and hot water, will be installed in the property. In addition, where possible, original fabrics will be reused and any new materials will be locally sourced such as sustainably grown timber directly from our rural estates.