Sheffield City Council has worked alongside partners ZED PODS Ltd and Homes England to deliver six self-contained, single person, high-quality homes. They have been built using ZED PODS’ award-winning low energy modular construction system, making them net zero.
This project also delivers another first for the city – the Council’s first dedicated move-on homes.
Move-on homes serve as a temporary stepping stone for individuals transitioning from homelessness or temporary accommodation to independent living.
The homes will be managed by the Council, providing access to both an affordable home and individual support for people to ensure tenancies are maintained.
Yesterday (5 August 2025), an opening ceremony was hosted at the properties in the Graves Park ward area of the city.
It saw everyone who had been involved in the project come together to see the finished homes before keys are handed over to their first residents.
I am delighted to see the Council deliver its first 'net zero in operation' Council homes.
This is an important step for the city. It’s been great to visit these homes upon their completion, and I will be particularly keen to hear from residents about their experience of living in these homes moving forwards.
Cllr Douglas Johnson, Chair of Sheffield City Council’s Housing Policy Committee
What makes ZedPods different
These homes are built in a UK factory using a strong, lightweight steel frame before being transported to the site. This modern method of construction is called ‘modular’ or ‘volumetric off-site’.
Designed by ZED PODS’ in-house team, the homes use a ‘fabric-first’ approach. That means they’re built with top-quality insulation and triple-glazed windows and doors to keep heat in and prevent condensation – making them warm, energy-efficient, and comfortable.
They run entirely on electricity and come with high-efficiency heat pumps and solar panels on the roof. This setup means the homes produce zero carbon emissions during everyday use – helping residents save on bills and supporting the Council’s climate goals.
We are proud to have worked in partnership with Sheffield City Council and Homes England to deliver the city’s first ‘net zero in operation’ council homes. These precision-engineered modular homes demonstrate how innovation and sustainability can be embedded into housing delivery.
They were designed with resident wellbeing and long-term affordability in mind. We hope this project serves as a blueprint for future housing schemes in Sheffield and beyond.
Tom Northway, Chairman of ZED PODS
The Council’s Housing Service will be keeping in touch with residents about their experiences living in the homes. If successful, the scope is there for more to be used across Sheffield and ease the housing crisis facing the city and country as a whole.
These homes have been delivered as part of the council’s Stock Increase Programme, with investment from the Council, Homes England and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting Sheffield City Council to achieve their ambitions.
It’s fantastic to see the completion of these sustainable, social rent homes in Sheffield and the positive impact they are making. This is a prime example of how we are working collaboratively with partners to achieve our mission to build much needed new communities that people can be proud to call home.
Gareth Phipps-Williams, Assistant Director – Affordable Housing Programme Management at Homes England