A year of progress delivering the right homes in the right places for local people
West Oxfordshire District Council has made strong progress over the past year in delivering more affordable homes for local residents, helping families and individuals stay close to the communities and areas they grew up in.
In 2025, the council worked closely with local housing providers and developers to support the delivery of a wide mix of affordable housing options - including social rent, affordable rent, First Homes, and shared ownership – all built to high environmental standards that make them cheaper to run and better for the planet.
With average house prices around £395,000, almost £100,000 above the national average, and more than 2,000 households on the housing register, providing tailored, affordable homes continues to be one of the Council’s top priorities.
Cllr Geoff Saul, Executive Member for Housing and Social Care said: “Everyone deserves a safe home they can truly afford. With too many local people being priced out of the places they grew up in, we’re working hard to change that; building more social rented homes, supporting first-time buyers, and making sure developments reflect the real needs of our communities.”
Developments completed this year include Magpie Court in Chipping Norton, where 12 new homes were completed, all for social rent. Each one includes air source heat pumps and solar panels to help keep energy bills low, offering a fresh start for local families.
In Carterton, a landmark development at Milestone Road delivered 200 affordable homes, including 105 for social rent. Built in partnership with Platform Housing Group and Homes England, it has helped residents of all ages stay close to their support networks.
One young resident, who bought her first home through the shared ownership scheme, said: “It’s just really lovely, really spacious, and I see it as my forever home. I like being able to stay in this area as I grew up in Witney.”
The Council also partnered with Cottsway Housing to transform a former council-owned property into a fully adapted bungalow for 17-year-old Jacob, a wheelchair user, giving him the independence to live more freely. His new home includes ramp access, wider doorways and a height-adjustable kitchen.
“It’s going to be life changing,” Jacob said. “I don’t know how to put it into words because I just feel so grateful and overwhelmed. I couldn’t think of anything better.”
As the Council continues shaping the next chapter of local development, its goal continues to be to build the right homes, in the right places, for the people who need them most.