Public backing for more eco-friendly homes

More than two-thirds of British homeowners want all new buildings to be eco-friendly, a report suggests.

Research found that 70 per cent of mortgage holders agreed new developments must be energy efficient. In addition, 17 per cent of British consumers would be prepared to pay more for a "green" home.

The poll of 2,000 adults for the insurer More Than found that a fifth would specifically look for green features in a new house, with a third claiming if they did move , they would invest time and money from the outset to make environmental improvements.

Almost a third would pay up to £500 to make their property greener, with 18 per cent willing to set aside between £500 and £1,000.

About 80 per cent would consider making environmental improvements to their homes if they could get a reduction in their council tax, and a third would, if it meant getting lower mortgage rates.

Yvette Cooper, the Housing minister, said: "It is great that consumers are embracing green measures and seeking out the eco credentials of their homes.

"From June, every home bought and sold will have to have an energy performance certificate setting out ratings on the carbon emissions and energy efficiency of the home and savings that can be made on bills."