Millfield Green, in Caddington, Bedfordshire, is redefining retirement living by combining sustainability with a strong sense of community. As the UK’s first Net Zero retirement village, Millfield Green is setting new standards for what retirement living can and should be, combining comfort, support, community, and environmental consciousness. Similarly, Blendworth Hills in Horndean, Hampshire, and Ampfield Meadows in Chandler’s Ford, Hampshire, are also designed with Net Zero carbon goals in mind, further exemplifying a commitment to sustainable living. Together, these developments showcase how environmentally responsible practices can be integrated into retirement communities, creating a healthier, more sustainable future for their residents.

A Pride in Sustainability

For residents like Margaret, living in a Net Zero community is a point of pride. “I am proud to be living in the UK’s first Net Zero retirement community,” she shares. Beyond the promise of lower electricity bills, it’s the knowledge that they’re contributing to the environment. With enhanced insulation and renewable energy sources powering the homes, Millfield Green is helping residents reduce their carbon footprint while reaping the benefits of sustainable living.

A standout feature of the village is its roof, which conceals a vast network of photovoltaic (PV) panels. “Behind the tiles sit solar panels producing 202kwp, growing to 965kwp, playing an important role in delivering the village’s Net Zero status,” explains Project Manager Peter Goldsworthy. This clever integration ensures that Millfield Green’s homes are powered by clean, renewable energy.

Embracing Sustainable Living

Living sustainably is woven into everyday life at Millfield Green. From composting to growing their own fruit and vegetables, residents like Margaret embrace eco-friendly habits. “Using vegetable products, recycling as much as possible, and avoiding plastic packaging are just a few ways we live more sustainably,” she shares.

Chris and Geraldine Philpott, who moved from Dunstable, are among the first to enjoy these sustainable features. “We are pleased to be living in Inspired Villages' first carbon-neutral site,” Chris says. “Living in a Net Zero community is a contribution to reducing local air pollution, which can only help improve the future for our grandchildren.”

A Social Community

Millfield Green isn’t just about sustainability—it’s about social well-being too. The community fosters a sense of belonging, encouraging residents to stay active and connected. “The team here encourage you to take part in all the activities you can, and they tailor them for those less active,” explains Geraldine.

Keith Brown, 92, enjoys a wide range of activities, from Tai Chi to arts and crafts. “Moving here has provided me with things I had lost while living alone,” he shares. “I also have the company here, which I didn’t have at home.”

As one of the first residents, Chris has seen the community grow. “We’ve introduced newer people to the community. We’re becoming a bigger and bigger family all the time.”

Powered by Renewable Energy

Millfield Green’s homes are powered by renewable energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. “All our energy comes from renewable sources,” says James Willcox, Head of Sustainability at Inspired Villages. “This means our homes are not just more energy efficient, but can generate electricity, so owners are better protected from volatile fluctuations in energy prices.”

Partnerships for a Sustainable Future

Behind the success of Millfield Green’s sustainable design is a strong partnership with Edilians, whose innovative materials helped bring the village’s Net Zero vision to life. The roof’s photovoltaic panels, which play a vital role in generating renewable energy, were made possible through Edilians’ collaboration. Their materials and expertise have been integral to creating a roof that is both functional and visually in tune with the local architecture.

The commitment to sustainability through this partnership is an essential part of Millfield Green’s success. As Peter Goldsworthy notes, “Behind the tiles sit solar panels producing 202kwp, growing to 965kwp, playing an important role in delivering the village’s Net Zero status.” The thoughtful design not only promotes sustainability but also ensures that Millfield Green remains an energy-efficient community for years to come.

Millfield Green retirement village in Caddington, Bedfordshire

A Community with a Vision

Millfield Green is more than just a place to live—it’s a vision for the future of retirement living. By combining eco-conscious design with a thriving social community, it proves that retirement can be both sustainable and fulfilling. As Keith puts it: “Moving here has given me the company and activities I was missing while living at home. It’s a place where you feel supported and empowered.”

Inspired Villages’ Commitment to Sustainability

Millfield Green is just the start. Inspired Villages is committed to ensuring that all future communities share the same dedication to sustainability. Villages like Blendworth Hills (in Horndean, Hampshire) and Ampfield Meadows (in Chandler’s Ford, Hampshire) are also designed with Net Zero carbon goals in mind, and all future developments will follow this eco-conscious path. By prioritising sustainability in every aspect of design, Inspired Villages is leading the way in creating communities that offer a high standard of living while contributing to a sustainable future.

In a world where eco-conscious living is becoming increasingly important, Millfield Green shows us how sustainability and community can go hand in hand, setting a blueprint for a greener, more fulfilling retirement.

Visit us to learn more!