A health centre built to BREEAM Excellent is the first in Wales to achieve the rating.

A healthcare centre currently in development at Loudon Square was recently awarded the rating, making it the highest scoring building in Wales for the 12 months prior to the end of May 2011.

Part of a redevelopment of Loudoun Square in Butetown, the heathcare centre includes a biomass boiler and a water harvesting system.

With completion expected in early 2013, the Square will also include retail units, a community hub and 62 affordable homes.

The scheme is being developed by Cardiff Community Housing Association (CCHA), Cardiff Council, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Austin-Smith:Lord.

Kevin Protheroe, chief executive of CCHA, said: “We are delighted that the scheme has attained BREEAM Excellent status. It has many environmental features which will provide long-term benefits for those living and working in Loudoun Square”

Jan Williams, chief executive of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, added: "The Health Board is committed to providing excellent, sustainable services for patients in modern, specially designed facilities. This project embodies those values and the UHB is delighted that the health centre is the first in Wales to win such a prestigious award.

www.loudounsquare.org.uk/News/