A traditional topping out ceremony has marked a major milestone in the construction of 40 new affordable homes in Marston.
The low-carbon development will be delivered in partnership by Oxford City Council’s housing company, OX Place, and Lucy Developments.
Representatives from the organisations gathered this week to celebrate the reaching the highest point of development at the former paddock off Butts Lane in Old Marston.
An ancient tradition
Topping out is a long-standing tradition in the construction industry, with roots going back to Saxon times, celebrating a building reaching its highest point. In keeping with tradition, a yew tree branch, a symbol of growth and prosperity, was fixed in place at the top of Marston Paddock.
Affordable and sustainable homes for Oxford
Due for completion in Autumn 2025, Marston Paddock will offer 40 affordable homes. This includes 21 council homes let at social rent for people on the housing register and 19 shared ownership homes.
Social rent levels mean council tenants will typically pay around 40% of the rent a private landlord would charge for the same home. Shared ownership is a flexible option which helps a range of people onto the housing ladder in one of the UK’s most unaffordable cities.
The new homes have been designed to go 56% beyond national carbon reduction targets, using a fabric-first approach, air source heat pumps, and mechanical ventilation heat recovery.
The development promotes sustainable travel with secure cycle storage, electric vehicle charging, and a new cycle link to the A40 path.
Comment
“Topping out is a proud moment in any development and it’s brilliant to celebrate this milestone at Marston Paddock. This is a beautiful, sustainable development that will deliver 40 genuinely affordable homes for people in Oxford who need them most.”
Councillor Nigel Chapman, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focused Services and Council Companies
“OX Place is proud to be working with Lucy Developments to deliver these much-needed homes. From affordability to sustainability, Marston Paddock shows what’s possible when we build with people and the planet in mind.”
Kevin Lowry, Interim Managing Director, OX Place
“We’re proud to be partnering with OX Place on a project that demonstrates how quality, sustainability, and affordability can go hand in hand. Reaching this milestone at Marston Paddock is a testament to the shared commitment of our teams to deliver homes that will have a lasting positive impact on the community and environment.”
Greg Hilton, Head of Lucy Developments
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