The houses make their own heating, electricity and water

The Childwall Valley estate cost nearly �15m and its homes have solar panels fitted and produce their own heating, electricity and recycled water.

Previously known as Hartsbourne Heights, it has been transformed from seven rundown tower blocks which were in need of modernisation.

Now it has been made a joint winner in the 2004 Sustainable New Homes Awards.

The awards are run by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and assess criteria such as how energy-efficient the homes are and whether they have improved the area's biodiversity.

The estate previously consisted of rundown tower blocks

The estate consists of flats, houses and bungalows and features a communal garden - cared for by residents - and a community centre.

The loft installation is made from old newspapers which have been treated to stop them absorbing moisture.

Project Officer Jill Barlow said: "The properties have all got different aspects which make them environmentally friendly.

"For example, the floor is made out of recycled rubber while the windows are made large at the back, because they are all south facing so they get more sun.

"And there are smaller windows at the front to reduce heat loss."

The Childwall development also includes a show home with an exhibition used to demonstrate the benefits of eco-technology to small businesses, and teach school children about recycling.

Paul King, director of WWF's One Million Sustainable Homes campaign, said: "It's great to see more examples of homes which are a pleasure to live in and gentle on the environment entering the mainstream of housing in the UK."