RESIDENTS in East Barnet could see their fuel bills fall by up to £150 a year after a housing management company completed development on the borough's first eco-estate.

The modernisation work, at Churchmead Close, included A-rated double glazing, high efficiency gas boilers, improved insulation and low energy lighting.

Barnet Homes chief executive, Tracey Lees, said: “The eco-estate has been a very exciting project for us, and I’m very pleased it’s resulted in such significant CO2 savings.”

The project, in collaboration with contractor United House, will cut CO2 emissions from each of the 19 tenanted flats by an estimated 1.5 tonnes a year.

Churchmead resident Bridget Monagle said: “It’s been a fantastic project and I’m really pleased with my new fireplace.

“There were no problems and the workforce were a lovely bunch who have made a big difference inside and out.”

To celebrate, Barnet Homes and United House organised a gardening day, in Churchmead Close, on Friday 16 July.

Kevin O’Shea, project manager for United House, said: “The gardening day provided a great opportunity for residents and staff from United House to get together to rejuvenate the outside space on Churchmead Close.”

Ms Lees said: “Since we started our Decent Homes programme we’ve been developing a number of ways to improve the energy efficiency at the homes we manage, and our first eco-estate is really a culmination of that work.

“There are clear benefits for the environment, and the scheme will also help residents by substantially cutting their fuel bills.”