Willox Park Phase 1 delivers a new generation of sustainable, affordable housing designed to support independent living for older residents. The development provides 17 new sheltered homes—14 flats and 3 bungalows, arranged around a landscaped C‑shaped courtyard that promotes daylight, privacy, and a strong sense of community.
Built on the former site of a local care home, the £4.45M scheme was progressed as a Design & Build contract, with West Dunbartonshire Council developing the design to RIBA Stage 3 before handover for construction. The project was funded through the Affordable Housing Supply Programme and the Housing Capital Investment Programme, reflecting the Council’s continued investment in high‑quality, future‑ready social housing.
The architectural strategy centred on comfort, accessibility, and long‑term sustainability. The single‑aspect dwellings are designed with generous openings, triple‑glazed windows, and carefully considered massing to maximise daylight while reducing heat loss.
The courtyard form creates a sheltered microclimate, while robust, low‑maintenance materials ensure longevity and reduced whole‑life costs for the client.
From the outset, the brief required a Net Zero Ready development that anticipated future regulatory change and embedded low‑carbon technologies across the site. The project combines a fabric‑first approach with renewable energy and passive design principles to deliver exceptionally high performance.
Key Sustainable Design Features
Willox Park Phase 1 represents a significant step in West Dunbartonshire Council’s sustainable housing programme, providing energy‑efficient, low‑carbon homes that support the wellbeing, independence, and comfort of older residents. The project demonstrates how affordable housing can meet the highest environmental standards without compromising design quality or liveability.
