Overview
Oxford City Council has appointed Kidlington-based builder Kingerlee to progress the redevelopment of the former Maltfield House site in Headington, marking an important step forward in delivering new affordable homes. The site was previously used as a children’s home and has been derelict since the COVID-19 pandemic.
This project is part of the Council’s wider Affordable Housing Supply Programme, through which the city aims to build more high-quality, energy-efficient affordable homes for local residents.
Site Description
Maltfield House is located in Northway, Headington, and will be redeveloped as a 100% affordable housing scheme. The Council is preparing a detailed planning application for the site, with submission anticipated in early 2026.
The development is expected to deliver up to 15 new homes for social rent. These homes will be designed to be energy-efficient, accessible and well-integrated into the surrounding neighbourhood.
Further details on the accommodation mix and design will be developed through the planning process.
Delivery Approach and Rationale
This scheme is being taken forward by Oxford City Council through the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). It reflects the Council’s commitment to directly deliver affordable homes that support people on the housing register and help reduce pressure on temporary accommodation.
A Design & Build contract has been agreed with Kingerlee to progress the redevelopment.
Site Visit
Cabinet Members Councillor Linda Smith and Councillor Nigel Chapman recently visited the Maltfield House site to meet with project partners and view early preparations.
Sustainability and Climate Commitment
The redevelopment of Maltfield House will reflect the Council’s broader sustainability priorities. As with other housing projects in Oxford, the scheme is expected to incorporate energy-efficient design and features that support the city’s net zero ambitions, including an all-electric approach and low-carbon technologies.
Planning and Timelines
Planning application — anticipated early 2026
Projected completion — 2028 (subject to planning consent)
The detailed planning process will refine design, layout and landscaping proposals ahead of full submission.
Delivering Affordable Homes in Oxford
The Maltfield House redevelopment forms part of Oxford City Council’s long-term strategy to increase the supply of genuinely affordable homes and make effective use of urban brownfield land. It builds on the Council’s commitment to deliver thousands of new homes, with over half provided as council homes or at social rent, as part of its Affordable Housing Supply Programme.
“The redevelopment of Maltfield House is an important moment for this part of Oxford. Our partnership with Kingerlee marks another step forward in delivering more affordable homes for Oxford. This development will provide new homes for the people on our housing register, alleviate pressure on temporary accommodation, and support our broader plan to greatly increase housing supply across the city.”
Councillor Linda Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing & Communities
"We are proud to be partnering with Oxford City Council to deliver much-needed homes for our city as part of their initiative to increase affordable housing in Oxford. We look forward to getting this important project underway and making a difference for the local community.”
-Darren Arekion, Managing Director, Kingerlee
