Man Group Invests in New Net-Zero Housing Community in Lewes

Man Group Property Investment (Man GPM) has announced a significant investment in a new housing community at Old Malling Farm in Lewes, England. In partnership with modular housing manufacturer TopHat, Man GPM will deliver up to 226 new homes designed for affordability and net-zero carbon emissions.

The investment addresses the UK's long-term housing shortage and affordability crisis. The Old Malling Farm project aims to increase the supply of affordable family housing in areas with high demand and lower income levels. Investors in the project include institutions such as LGPS, Homes England, and Big Society Capital, seeking both financial returns and demonstrable social and environmental impact.

Utilizing modular construction techniques, the development at Old Malling Farm is expected to be completed more swiftly than traditionally built sites, with the first homes anticipated by early 2026. The homes will incorporate energy-efficient solutions like air source heat pumps, solar panels, and proprietary cladding systems to ensure significantly lower running costs and reduced carbon footprints.

The development will include homes for rent for lower-income families and key workers, as well as shared ownership options for first-time buyers. The initiative focuses on improving access to quality, affordable housing for local residents. Environmental considerations and sustainability are central to the design and manufacturing processes.

The project's modular homes are projected to produce approximately 82% less embodied carbon during construction compared to traditional homes. The operational phase aims for net-zero carbon emissions through energy-efficient designs that exceed current environmental legislation.