Feltham’s Transformation of Ryegrass: 37 New Homes for Over 55s

Feltham Construction recently handed over 37 new homes to Cottsway Housing Association following an 18-month regeneration project. Work started on the redevelopment of Ryegrass in Woodstock, West Oxfordshire, back in July 2024, after Feltham Construction secured a contract through Westworks’ DPS.

Key features of the redevelopment:

• Demolition of 18 bungalows and one house no longer fit for use
• 37 new homes: one and two-bed apartments for social rent
• Purpose-built for over-55s living
• Air source heat pumps and communal solar panels installed for energy efficiency
• Materials selected to blend in with local neighbourhoods

Case study: Taking Ryegrass from demolition to delivery

In 2023, Cottsway Housing Association used Westworks to procure a construction partner with experience in delivering large and complex housing schemes. Following a mini-competition through our Development and Construction DPS, Cottsway awarded a two-stage contract to Feltham Construction to carry out demolition, preconstruction and construction works at Ryegrass.

Having recently completed the project, Feltham’s Construction Manager, Guy Thomas, shares an insight into the project’s delivery.

Feltham’s innovative solutions for timely delivery

Large developments like Ryegrass are complex. They involve multiple workstreams, stakeholders and sign-off points. Without careful planning, delays can quickly arise, which makes it essential to appoint an experienced contractor who plans for the expected and responds effectively to the unexpected.

When it came to working on Ryegrass, Guy knew from experience that early engagement with statutory bodies, such as electricity and water providers, would be critical in keeping the project on track. He therefore began the process of installing water and electric mains at the very start of the development. Guy believes that his early involvement of statutory bodies was critical to delivering the project on time, and recommends others do the same:

“If there is one piece of advice I can give on large developments, it’s to engage statutory bodies as early as possible in the process.” says Guy. “Even if it’s just to get a quote, as that alone can take up to 80 days.”

However, unforeseen challenges often crop up that no one can plan for and require multiple organisations to solve together. For example, the team had to rethink the lighting for the Ryegrass development after an ecological survey discovered bats close to the site.

“Finding a solution that satisfied ecologists, designers and planners wasn’t straightforward. The team had to liaise closely with all parties to find a suitable and compliant option for both people and wildlife.”

As well as solving emerging issues, Feltham also offered up innovations. The team consulted on the roof construction and replaced timber members for steel ones, resulting in earlier installation timelines, a reduction in costs and greater structural integrity.

Feltham’s innovative ideas for the roof construction saved the project time and money.

Building strong partnerships in small communities

During the development, Feltham took steps to build ties with the community and minimise disruption. Guy shares that the team adopted principles from the  Considerate Constructors Scheme and operated an open-door policy for any residents wanting to discuss an issue or enquire about progress.

In addition to this, Feltham was committed to leaving a lasting benefit for the community beyond the development itself. To achieve this, the construction team delivered several social value initiatives, including building storage facilities at two local schools.

The delivery of high-quality new homes to Woodstock

When talking to Guy about what a good handover looks like, he explains that timely delivery, keeping costs within budget, and quality workmanship are important for Feltham:

“When we hand over a site like this one, there should be no snags or defects, the full sign-off process is complete, and I can hand over the health and safety file to the client with confidence.”

“It’s been a really good project for us and we enjoy working with Cottsway. It wasn’t the easiest project, but we delivered it on time and to the client’s budget.”

Achieving the client’s vision

Through the Westworks’ DPS, Cottsway was able to appoint Feltham Construction: a skilled and experienced contractor that mitigated risk as standard, collaborated effectively with stakeholders, and introduced innovative solutions.

The result of this partnership is a high-quality, sustainable development that was delivered on time and within budget. Ryegrass is now ready to provide much-needed new homes for the local community.