Community Development Projects

New housing development doesn’t finish when houses are built. Communities need support helping new residents to put down roots and build bridges with the existing community.

Our expert Community Development Workers specialise in facilitating tailored projects that help new residents to feel at home and connect with their local area.

Heyford Park Community Development Project

Established in 2018, the Heyford Park Community Development Project brought together Dorchester Living, Cherwell District Council, Heyford Park Parish Council and other community partners to support the integration of new development in Upper Heyford.  

The building of RAF Upper Heyford in the early 20th century established close connections with the RAF and US Air Force—a unique historical identity. The base was closed in 1994, but a local Veteran’s Association remains. Dorchester Group acquired the Heyford Park site in 2009, including custodianship of the former base, with plans to build 1000+ homes. 

Bringing all the different parts of the community together, Community First Oxfordshire worked with residents to help develop a vibrant, resilient and self-sustaining community. 

Woodstock Community Development Project

A partnership between Blenheim Estate, Woodstock Town Council and Community First Oxfordshire, the Woodstock Community Development Project began in April 2021, with the aim of supporting existing and new residents to connect through interactive social and environmental activities.  

Our Community Development Worker organised and ran events like the ‘Sustainable Woodstock National Green Week’ and assisted with a Community Forum. In addition to supporting management committees and helping to build local school links, they also developed initiatives to improve the usage of Woodstock’s community buildings and outdoor spaces.