302 Abingdon Road Refurbishment

Client: Halfords Limited
Completed: July 2026

Summary:

ODS refurbished 302 Abingdon Road, which involved removing the existing render from all external walls and installing a new insulated K Rend (EWI) system to improve both performance and appearance. As part of the refurbishment, three windows and one door were removed and blocked up, while all remaining windows and doors were redecorated to create a clean, consistent finish across the property. ODS delivered the project in collaboration with Carter Jonas, who acted as contract administrators throughout the works.

Requirements:

The works were designed and required to significantly improve the building’s thermal performance and modernise its appearance. Enhancing the U‑values of the first‑floor unit, home to the Oxford Dive Centre, supports a more comfortable, energy‑efficient space for the community. Upgrading the exterior was also essential for attracting new tenants to the vacant ground‑floor unit, with a refreshed façade helping to increase interest and improve the building’s marketability.

Challenges:

• Maintaining full operation — The Dive Centre needed to stay open throughout, requiring careful planning to avoid disruption.

• Managing disruption — Noise, dust and general disturbance had to be controlled to protect staff, customers and the public.

• Ensuring safety and comfort — Delivering the works safely while keeping the environment comfortable for use demanded ongoing coordination.

Solutions:

Daily communication with the Dive Centre’s owner ensured clear expectations and early notice of any potential disruption. ODS scheduled the most disruptive activities for Mondays, when the Dive Centre was closed, significantly reducing noise and dust impact. This approach allowed the project to progress efficiently while maintaining a safe, accessible and welcoming environment for customers.

Outcome:

The refurbishment has transformed the building into a cleaner, modern and more inviting space for the community. The new insulated K Rend system has improved thermal performance and reduced heat loss, supporting environmental sustainability while extending the lifespan of the existing structure, demonstrating the value of retrofit over full replacement.

Removing redundant openings and redecorating all remaining windows and doors has created a consistent, professional exterior that strengthens kerb appeal and helps attract new business to the vacant ground‑floor unit. The retrofit approach also delivered a cost‑effective and quicker upgrade, enhancing asset value without the expense or disruption of starting from scratch.