Ground-breaking work launched on new Oxfordshire homes

Construction has begun to create new energy efficient homes in Oxfordshire, as part of a leading housing associations plans to address local housing needs.

Sovereign, a leading housing association, is working in partnership with contractors E G Carter & CO Ltd, to deliver new properties on a 2.7 acre site, which was purchased from Carter Jonas, an estate and property agent.   

Plans for the area include building 22 homes for affordable rent and shared ownership, with planning permission granted for the development in October 2022.  

As well as creating new affordable places to live, every home on the development will be made sustainable through the installation of solar panels, air source heat pumps and improved fabric.  

Joanna Smith, Development Manager at Sovereign, said: ‘It’s hugely encouraging to see work starting on site to deliver these sustainable and energy efficient homes.

‘Sustainability and energy use are something on all our minds right now and I’m pleased the homes being delivered will be more affordable to run. This is all thanks to the measures we are taking to make them energy efficient.

‘This development showcases our ability to deliver affordable homes, at a time of need.’ 

The new two and three bed homes also come with plenty of parking, access to the existing Public Right of Way, as well as the neighbouring playing field and local village.

Planning permission was previously granted for nine large homes for private sale. However, Sovereign decided to submit a different plan for the site. It’s application focused on providing a greater number of high-quality and more efficient homes, to better address the demand for local housing.   

Designed by architects Quattro Design, the homes will be in keeping with the local area and are expected to be completed in early 2024. With funding from Homes England and Sovereign, the scheme represents another land-led development for the association in Oxfordshire. 

Photo by Lawrence Hookham