Construction has officially commenced on a new community centre at Blackbird Leys in Oxford, marked by a breaking ground ceremony. The project forms part of a £100 million investment to regenerate the Blackbird Leys estate, delivering much-needed affordable housing alongside vital community infrastructure.

The ceremony signals the start of works on the landmark building that will serve as the physical and social heart of the development. On the day attendees heard from Ryan Harris of The Hill Group, Simon Barry, from Peabody, and Councillor Linda Smith of Oxford City Council. They were joined by other members of the City Council, the Parish Council and the wider project team, all reflecting on their shared ambitions for the future of the site.

The new three-storey community hub has been designed as a sustainable and flexible building, it will provide three community halls, rentable office space, breakout areas and a communal garden. The Centre has been shaped through ongoing engagement with residents and stakeholders to ensure it responds directly to local needs, supporting a wide range of groups, activities and services.

Providing architectural and lead consultant services, we are supporting the delivery of the project working in close collaboration with main contractor, The Hill Group.

The wider regeneration, which is a joint venture between Oxford City Council and Peabody Housing Association, will provide 294 affordable, low-energy homes across infill sites within Blackbird Leys District Centre, with aims to better meet the needs of the existing, well-established community.

Chris Chapman, Project Partner at GSSArchitecture, commented: “As Ryan so poignantly reflected during the ceremony, the new community centre represents a clear statement of intent from the stakeholders. This regeneration is about far more than delivering new homes; it is about strengthening and sustaining the existing community, creating a place where people can connect and feel proud of where they live. We are delighted to be involved in such a meaningful project and look forward to seeing the centre take shape in the months ahead.”

Ryan Harris, Regional Director at The Hill Group, said: “We’re proud to be working alongside Peabody and Oxford City Council to deliver this important new community centre for Blackbird Leys. Commencing work marks a significant step forward in the wider regeneration of the District Centre. These community facilities provide safe, inclusive environments where friendships can be formed and memories made. They become a vital ‘anchor’ within the community, and we are delighted to be part of this story. We look forward to seeing the vison come to life.”

The Community Centre is one of several projects we are working on with Hill within the wider development. Block A and D are both residential buildings offering 2- and 3- bedroom homes. Block D is nearing completion and when finished will provide 61 brand new homes for social rent in the District Centre, offering huge support for the local area.