A revolutionary "green" housing development constructed by a Bolton building company has been hailed as a model for housebuilders nationwide.

By using modern methods of construction, recycled building supplies and renewable energy sources, the New Inn housing development in Clayton, east Manchester was identified as an ideal case study for this year's Green Up North conference last month.

Construction company G&J Seddon, based in Plodder Lane, Farnworth, and Northern Counties, the housing association that owns the development, were invited by conference organisers, the National Housing Federation, to showcase the scheme and demonstrate the environmental work being carried out.

Peter Jackson, G&J Seddon's Operations' Director and Emma Richman, Senior Project Manager from Northern Counties addressed hundreds of delegates who were keen to learn more about the partnership.

Comprising four three-bedroom homes, the New Inn development represents the first phase of the Ashton New Road North regeneration project, which by 2010 should see a further 130 modern, energy efficient and eco-friendly homes similar to those already completed.

Peter Jackson said: "Solar panels have been located on the south facing roofs of all four houses, which absorb solar radiation and transfer energy into the pipework.

"Not only is the system reducing carbon emissions, but it costs nothing to run and therefore contributes to reducing the energy bills of all New Inn residents."