News POE study: Residents report high satisfaction rates with Chobham Manor development

POE study: Residents report high satisfaction rates with Chobham Manor development

News, Publications

February 07, 2023

Commissioned by the LLDC, the Post Occupancy Evaluation (POE) at Chobham Manor underlines the importance of good design in optimising energy efficiency, combating climate change, and providing safe and inclusive neighbourhoods where people choose to live and stay.

The team gathered residents’ views on a broad range of topics from the sense of belonging to the community, and safety, through to more technical aspects such as the ability to control temperature and utilities in their home. Online surveys with statistical relevant information were coupled with face to face home interviews and focus groups on relevant topics, and complemented by monitoring equipment looking at temperature, relative humidity, CO2, air quality, window opening frequency, lux and noise levels and thermographic images.

Response from residents has been overwhelmingly positive. The study reported high overall satisfaction rates—87% for the neighbourhood and 75% for individual homes. Most of the residents expressed their choice to make Chobham Manor their long-term residence, signifying a stable, satisfied community.

The overall data gathered outperformed the average UK new builds in utility consumption, which is indicative of the effectiveness of the design strategy focussed on energy efficiency. Residents reported high satisfaction levels with for water (84%) and electricity (58%) use, which confirms that the project has been successful in delivering low-energy housing.

Whilst the POE was primarily positive, it identified areas needing attention, such as temperature control in summer and residents’ control over the heating bills. These insights will inform refinements in other upcoming developments and also serve as a blueprint for LLDC and other public bodies in planning and delivering sustainable, community-focused neighbourhoods.