A HOUSE builder has claimed that homeowners in Pickering are able to save thousands on energy bills by switching to a newly built home.

Research by Barratt Homes, which has a development called Heather Croft, in Whitby Road, Pickering, has revealed the savings that can be had by its customers in the town.

A spokesperson for the firm said this research follows the findings of a 2023 report by the Home Builders Federation, which details that new-build houses are cheaper to run than older properties - and also better for the environment.

These savings are down to the new homes having an improved energy efficiency rating, with those at Heather Croft achieving an energy-efficiency rating of A or B.

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Given this, the spokesperson said those who purchase a new build in Pickering "can save over £3,100 on bills each year".

“On average, new build houses will cost £1,822.38 to run a year, which is just one third of the cost of an average existing dwelling, which would be to £4,940.23 per year based on most recent energy prices," they added.

Paul Wharam, technical director at Barratt Developments Yorkshire East, said: “As Britain’s largest housebuilder, it’s paramount that we lead the way in green building alongside supporting local residents amidst the cost-of-living crisis.”