A PIONEERING builder from Barry got the green light this week to continue work on his eco friendly house.

Building services contractor Paul Hinam submitted plans for the four-bedroom house off Port Road last summer and, having been given outline planning permission then, he now has full consent to complete the ambitious project.

The modern design, which is due for completion in July, will include solar panels to heat water, a recycling centre and heating energy drawn from the air.

It is estimated the energy saving equipment will cost £8,500 - a figure Mr Hinam believes is affordable.

He said: "It's a fully sustainable house that will use local products and materials. As well as the solar panels and recycling we've got hemp, cotton and sheep's wool for our wall insulation.

"These days there's great potential for people to do the right thing environmentally and at an affordable cost with long-term financial benefit.

"It will probably take between four and 10 years to get a payback on each of our energy saving investments at current energy costs.

"As a building services contractor I'm constantly advising my clients to be more environmentally aware," he added.

"I thought it was about time I practised what I preach and walked the talk!"