Episode 6: The Village, Ireland.

The Village is a new eco-town in Ireland. The planners have given full consent, but what do the neighbours think? Ireland's first ecovillage is an extension of the existing village of Cloughjordan. The energy and dynamism of the existing community is being merged with new enthusiastic residents. Building is complete or well underway for many of the planned 114 low-energy homes and 16 live-work units. As of July 2012 , more than 50 buildings are complete and more due to start shortly. The eco hostel 'DJango's' is now open for visitors and a full calendar of eco-events and courses are planned.

The ecovillage is offering fully-serviced sites with outline planning permission (some sites have full planning), and in addition to the usual water, electrical and sewerage services is ducting for super-fast fibre optic broadband, and 2.4 km of insulated piping which is part of the ecovillage's own district heating system. It is fuelled by the sun through solar thermal panels and renewable wood chippings, and provides hot water for heating and household use.

All residents also enjoy a share in 50 acres of farmland, community and personal allotments, and woodland. Members may also access the community-supported farm. So you're buying more than a site. You will be buying into a secure and sustainable lifestyle. Village members are married, single, separated, gay, straight, young and old.

The Village is still looking for residents, with some land packages for sale at reduced prices. You will have access to a secure supply of food and renewable energy, access to business opportunities supported by our enterprise centre, and probably most importantly, you will be surrounded by friendly, enthusiastic neighbours who have played their part in creating this unique ecovillage.