Property Developer Johnny Sandelson Announces New Oxford Refurbishment Project

Dec. 14, 2011 - PRLog -- OXFORD, OXFORDSHIRE-   A derelict housing block in Jericho near the Oxford City Centre is set to have a face lift.

According to the Oxford Times, Grantham House, which has fallen into disrepair since 2007, has been acquired by notable UK property entrepreneur Johnny Sandelson (http://www.johnnysandelson.com) and his business partner, Asian-based Shuif Hussain.  Alongside award-winning practice Riach Architects, Mr Sandelson (http://www.johnnysandelson.com) and Mr Hussain aim to build a contemporary high quality housing scheme of apartments.  They  intend to utilise the existing structure, adding a new ‘green roof’ and opening up new skylights to let more natural light into the building’s flats.  29 new residential units will be built within the development.

Speaking to the Oxford Times Johnny Sandelson (http://www.johnnysandelson.com) said:  “We are delighted to have made this acquisition.  We will shortly be submitting plans to the planning department, and with their support, we believe we will reap significant long-term rental returns.

“There is currently a shortage of high-quality letting units available, so this scheme will add to the rental pool in the area.  It is our intention to progress the work quickly, yet sensitively, to create a modern feature building.  I believe this will provide vibrancy and vitality to the area.  We will work closely with Oxford City Council throughout the redevelopment.”

Steve Sprason, Head of Corporate Assets at Oxford City Council, said: “This sale has produced a significant capital receipt in a very testing economic climate. Set against the savings required this allows the Council to continue in its plans to provide much needed affordable housing in the city. The building is surplus to our requirements and we have encouraged the purchasers to refurbish the building to a n attractive high standard in keeping with the location.”  

Sustainability is one of the main aims of the development.  The design team plans to cover existing masonry in a series of insulated panels, which they say will not only make the building more energy-efficient, but will also add more colour to the building. Douglas Riach, Principal of Riach Architects described sustainability as being “key to the design proposals” and revealed intentions to reuse existing building materials which would otherwise be wasted if the building were demolished.

The news of the redevelopment was well-received by Jericho Living Housing Trust chairman Tony Joyce, who said:   “I think everyone will be pleased to see that block in use again to provide further housing for that part of the city.”

Discussions are currently taking place between the purchaser and Blenheim Palace regarding a proposal for partnership for the Grantham House refurbishment. This follows their successful joint venture on the redevelopment of Talbot Lodge, a £3.25 million Oxfordshire home. The Grantham House apartments are expected to be available to let from Autumn 2013.