We recently visited this project in Hook Norton which is reaching completion. An extensive community engagement process shaped the project throughout its development through a series of interviews, surveys and open meetings. With an ambitious sustainability strategy at its heart, the project set itself the target of being carbon neutral both during construction and occupation.
The project consists of 12 dwellings centred around a shared landscape. Four two bedroom homes are now on sale and eight affordable rental units are in the process of being allocated to people with local connections.
From the outset this project has been about community and serves as a model for other communities looking to address their housing challenges. Early on, a requirement for a community building, accessible at all times, was identified in the community engagement process and a multi-use space has been created for use by all residents of Hook Norton.