Seaham Garden Village

Esh Construction is delivering 750 affordable homes at Seaham Garden Village for Karbon Homes, part of a 1,500-home masterplan in County Durham with an aim for all homes to be net zero carbon. 

The region’s first garden village will feature a primary school, retail, health facilities, and 50% of green space with three miles of landscaped paths. The new build homes will connect to one of the UK’s first large-scale mine water heat networks, creating an ultra-low carbon community.

Seaham Garden Village is a landmark development transforming the Durham coast, delivered in phases to provide homes and apartments for social rent, affordable rent, and Rent to Buy. Spanning 78 hectares, the site will feature a pioneering mine water district heat network, supplying ultra-low carbon heating by harnessing geothermal energy from disused coal mines.

Led by Durham County Council, the Mining Remediation Authority, and Karbon Homes, the initiative utilises water already pumped to the surface. The Energy Centre at Dawdon, just two miles away, increases the water’s temperature via heat exchange before distributing it to homes through a new pipe network.

Lumsden & Carroll has played a key role in roads and sewer works, including installing a 1,600-metre spine road, laying 11,000m² of tarmac, and using innovative Tensar materials in a geocell highway arrangement to address differential settlement.

Plans for 211 supported housing apartments, including an extra care scheme and two blocks for over-55s, have been submitted for council approval.

The Seaham Garden Village project has generated significant employment opportunities so far, with over 45 Durham residents and 102 North East operatives contributing more than 7,400 weeks of work. 

Investment in skills is a key focus, with 553 weeks of apprenticeships and 40 weeks of T-Level placements provided, supporting future careers in construction. Engagement with education has seen staff dedicating 86 hours to school visits, inspiring young learners about industry opportunities.

We have also supported the community through a volunteering project at Seaham Trinity Primary School. Donating funds for materials and resources to create a revamped forest school place that transformed the area into a place where pupils can play, learn and develop invaluable skills outdoors, was backed up by 75 hours of volunteering to bring the project to life alongside Karbon Homes and subcontractors.