Four zero-carbon homes with grass roofs are set to be built in a village in an area of natural beauty.

Plans have been approved with conditions to build the four zero-carbon dwellings on unoccupied land located on the Northern side of Church Raike, in Chipping in the Forest of Bowland.

Many residents attempted to object to the planning application saying it would block the view and that it was not in keeping with the village, but the council have given them the green light.

The report highlights the importance of the zero-carbon aspect of the buildings.

The report reads: “We are passionate about delivering homes that reduce the impact of carbon on the environment.

“We understand and are aware that building and construction is currently responsible for 39 per cent of carbon emissions worldwide with a further 16 per cent carbon emissions coming from household energy consumption.

“Technology now renders it possible to dramatically reduce these statistics, and therefore we want to help new homes achieve this.”

To be zero-carbon, the homes will not have gas and will rely solely on electricity which will be powered by solar panels which will feed into a battery back up and be released as required.

The energy will also be used to supply the heat pump system which will heat water for the underfloor heating pipes.

The hot waste water will run in pipes to heat up the cold water coming into the system.

Natural timber products are to be used on the stairs, doors and wardrobes; tiles will be be natural porcelain and worktops to be natural products.

The outdoor brick will be constructed with natural coursed stone walling from the local quarry.

A grass roof will be grown to improve air quality, filter harmful pollutants, provide higher thermal efficiencies, and absorb stormwater including the reduction of the urban heat effect.

No concrete products are being used in the superstructure to prevent carbon emissions.

The developers must follow a number of conditions including using approved materials for the build, only removing trees and bushes out of nesting season, and must be carried out in accordance with the approved construction and environment management plan.