A pioneering eco firm has been given a cash boost as it gears up to launch full production of its arc-haus — a futuristic high-tech sustainable building.

Green Unit, based in Chiselhampton has been awarded a £27,000 match funding LEADER grant by South Oxfordshire District Council.

It will use the money towards the launch of the production line for its arc-haus products.

The arc-haus is a modular hi-tech structure built using sustainable materials and processes and is ideal for use as an office, community building or domestic accommodation.

Manufactured to the highest energy standards according to German Passivhaus principles, the arc-haus comes in many different sizes and internal layout configurations and is fully building regulations compliant.

The company was set up by Philip Clayden and Jonathan Finnerty earlier this year and is already receiving orders.

Mr Finnerty said: "This grant has enabled us to bring forward the manufacture of the arc-haus and we hope to start full production in January.

"Our carbon reduction commitment starts with our manufacturing environment where we heat and power our factory renewably, through to the Forest Stewardship Council certified sustainable sourcing of the timber products and, finally, to a building which will consume very little energy.

"We have undertaken our research and development in conjunction with the Institute of Sustainable Development at Oxford Brookes University and this ensures the building is super insulated."

Kate Forrest, the South Oxfordshire LEADER project manager, said: "This grant will create jobs whilst playing its role in helping Oxfordshire meet its green credential objectives, as a region that inspires and develops new environmental technologies and products.

"Its two founding directors have the passion, craft and business experience that will help promote and drive down the costs of sustainable living.”

Contact: www.greenunit.co.uk