Woodford Mill, Witney

Woodford Mill development comprises a mix of new townhouses and new apartments in the original mill building, providing properties which help to rejuvenate the site.

The site is listed in a conservation area and is in a unique waterside setting with associated environmental impact.

Acknowledging the importance of the site both historically and within the local community, Rodgers Leask Ltd on behalf of Cala Homes worked closely with English Heritage, local historians, planning authorities and environmental agencies to preserve the historical and environmental value of the site.

All of the original buildings were retained and refurbished into impressive luxury residential properties with all the natural features and stone detail restored. The Grade II listed four storey Mill building was not only retained, but rebuilt to exacting standards.

Encompassed within the restored mill building is a heritage centre to ensure that the development remains a part of the local community. The existing chimney on the site was also renovated as a landmark feature. All the new build homes are designed to reflect the original buildings.

Challenges with the development included the restoration of timber floors and roof trusses and the treatment of cast iron columns and beams together with significant repair works to stonework around the properties which required special attention. Works in respect of the opening up of the mill races adjacent to and within the mill buildings resulted in the need for local underpinning and strengthening of the foundations, waterproofing of the areas of the building below water level and improvements to the mill races embankments, walls and bridges in accordance with the requirements of the local authority and the Environment Agency.