Winner: Berkeley Group

In the past 12 months Berkeley Group has heavily increased its sustainability and community engagement. It submitted more than 20 planning applications with a binding commitment to net biodiversity gain (NBG) – a measurable increase in natural life – far more than any other developer. In March 2019, the government confirmed NBG will be a national policy requirement, with DEFRA crediting Berkeley as a pioneer. In 2018 it also became the UK’s first carbon-positive homebuilder, cutting emissions from business operations by 22% since 2016 and offsetting 110% of remaining emissions through supporting verified projects. The firm has taken a lead on modular construction with its precision manufacturing facility in Ebbsfleet, Kent. Berkeley has been piloting community plans on 12 housing schemes both urban and rural as part of a structured approach to building communities. Each plan is different, reflecting local needs and aspirations.

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