Oxford City Council has selected Willmott Dixon’s energy efficiency business  for a £20m contract to refurbish five high-rise residential tower blocks that were built in the 1960s and are home to over 900 residents.

The 348 flats are contained in the Evenlode and Windrush tower blocks in Blackbird Leys, Foresters in Wood Farm, Hockmore in Cowley and Plowman in Northway.

Willmott Dixon’s team of energy specialists will carry out work including structural repairs, cladding and extra insulation, replacement of windows, new heating systems and lift refurbishments.

Communal electrics and fire safety systems will also be updated as well as work car parks, fencing and front entrances.

The project will extend the life of the homes for at least 30 years and enable residents to live in healthier, warmer and cheaper to heat homes.

Rob Lambe, managing director for Energy Services said: “This is a new geographical area for us and builds on recent contract wins across the country.

“Our work to install energy efficiency improvements at these tower blocks will help residents reduce their fuel bills and live in warmer, healthier homes.”

This contract expands the presence of Willmott Dixon Energy Services in the south of England. The company is already very active further north, where it is currently working with Hull City Council, West Yorkshire Combined Authorities and the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities to make people’s homes warmer and more efficient.