UK: Developer Downing has agreed a deal with Utopi to incorporate ESG technology at its Square Gardens coliving scheme in Manchester.
Utopi uses ESG data collection, reporting, and impact measurement to improve ESG performance and resident engagement at large scale assets. It is claimed that Utopi has the capability to reduce a developments emission by 20 to 30 per cent. Downing’s £400 million development will be the first coliving project in Manchester to benefit from this technology.
Sensors will be installed in all 1,772 apartments, the communal spaces and commercial units at Square Gardens. The smart technology will collect live data and provide real-time contextualised data that allows developers and residents to act and move towards the decarbonisation of the property industry.
Bay Downing, investment director at Downing, said: “Our residential developments are known for providing affordable, hassle-free living in sought after locations right across the UK, where residents can make the most of city centre living. Downing’s all-round service has come through years of consultation and collaboration with our tenants, ensuring they have the services and facilities they want and need.
“Installing Utopi is the next step in our journey, as we are giving our environmentally-conscious tenants the opportunity to join the Downing team to make our developments as sustainable as possible – through operation as well as construction,” he added.
Jonathan Burridge, founder and CEO of Utopi, added: “Data-driven transformation is essential to reducing global carbon emissions and is key to future-proofing sustainable communities across the UK. We are delighted to have agreed this partnership with Downing. As a transformative developer across the country, it can access thousands of tenants and educate them about the decisions they are making when it comes to energy consumption.”
Last month, Downing reached a major milestone with the construction of the façade starting at Square Gardens. Phase one of the scheme is scheduled to complete in August 2024, with the delivery of phase two in March 2025.
