Latest images unveiled for new council HQ
A new building that will kickstart the revitalisation of Didcot Gateway is now one step closer, with updated images of the proposed council headquarters released today and a formal planning application expected soon.
The building will be the first step to bring new life into this historically neglected site, providing more confidence for future business investment and making Didcot an even more attractive place to live, work and learn.
Inspired by green living principles of the Didcot Garden Town vision, the building is set to be both eye-catching and eco-friendly with striking living walls of climbing plants to welcome visitors arriving from the train and bus station. Homes England will also be developing a larger section of the Gateway site for housing in due course.
The designs show a four-storey building themed around the town’s railway heritage, which also incorporates high standards for sustainability by building with environmentally friendly materials, using design principles to reduce energy use, and using renewable energy sources where possible. As well as offices for council staff, there will be flexible space for commercial rent and public areas such as a café and landscaped gardens.
Both South Oxfordshire and neighbouring Vale of White Horse District Council plan to call the office home, as it will provide a flexible, sustainable workspace central to the two districts and help them become carbon neutral councils.
South Oxfordshire District Council proposes to submit a planning application for the site shortly and will be encouraging the public, local businesses and community groups to have their say on the proposals through the formal Planning Application consultation process.
Cllr Andrea Powell, the Cabinet Member responsible for the new building project at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “We’re very pleased to share the latest plans for our new building in Didcot as part of our aim to help revitalise the town centre and bring our vision for Didcot Gateway to life.
“This is an exciting move for us both economically and environmentally, not only to help us achieve our sustainability targets but also reduce our energy usage and ongoing costs for our council tax payers.”
Images are not necessarily indicative of the final building, the final proposals will be set out in detail in the forthcoming planning application
