West Oxfordshire District Council funding boost helps save Chadlington’s Old Bakehouse
West Oxfordshire District Council has helped secure the future of a much-loved supported living home for older people in Chadlington. The Council used £79,307 of Section 106 (S106) affordable housing funding to support the refurbishment of The Old Bakehouse, which had been under threat of closure.
Councillor Geoff Saul, Executive Member for Housing and Social Care, said:
“I am absolutely delighted that we have been able to help protect The Old Bakehouse for current and future residents.
“This home has been part of village life for over forty years. By working together with the community, we have ensured residents can continue to live safely, independently and close to the people who matter most to them.”
The Old Bakehouse has provided supported living accommodation for up to 12 residents for more than four decades. After the original owners donated the property to a local charity, the building began to fall into disrepair and faced possible closure two years ago.
In September 2025, a dedicated friends group raised funds to buy the property and protect its future. However, further funding was needed to refurbish and modernise the building.
The group approached the District Council, and its Strategic Housing team were able to support the project using £79,307 from a developer Section S106 contribution. Section 106 (S106) funding is provided by developers to mitigate the impact of new developments, supporting a wide range of local infrastructure required as a result of that development. This includes both infrastructure contributions, such as education, transport, open space, and community facilities, and the delivery of social and affordable housing.
The investment has funded local building firms to refurbish empty suites. Improvements include new bathrooms and kitchenettes, electrical works, fire doors and new carpets. The upgraded rooms now provide safe, modern and comfortable homes for residents.
The Old Bakehouse will continue to offer its residents the chance to remain in their community, close to family, friends and familiar surroundings. This project supports the Council’s priority of enabling a good quality of life for all and working together with communities to meet local housing needs.