The first of three projects to provide 48 homes in Thame and Wheatley has finished.

The new homes, a mix of new builds and conversions, are part of a wider initiative to provide affordable, energy-efficient housing in the area.

They include one-bedroom houses and flats available for affordable rent or under a shared ownership scheme, as well as independent living accommodation for people aged 55 and over.

The majority of the funding came from Section 106 affordable housing grants, which are contributions from developers.

The first residents have already moved into their new homes in Thame, which boast energy-saving features such as solar roof panels and ground source heat pumps.

The properties also have access to electric vehicle charging points.

A newly built property in Wheatley, consisting of 12 one-bedroom apartments, is also welcoming new tenants.

The eco-friendly features of this building mean it will achieve zero carbon emissions when in use.

Councillor Maggie Filipova-Rivers, cabinet member for housing at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: "Our partnership work with housing providers is one of the ways we’re meeting the housing needs of our residents now and in the future.

"Providing these affordable homes built with high environmental standards and eco features to help keep bills low too will help ensure people on lower incomes can live and thrive here."

The project was brought to life through a partnership between South Oxfordshire District Council, Soha Housing, Thame Community Land Trust, and Thame and District Housing Association.

Ian Brooke, chief executive at Thame and District Housing Association, said: "There are many reasons such as challenging life events and crises that can lead to someone being at risk of homelessness.

"Providing a safe and secure place to call home is essential, and we’re very happy to see people now forming part of a new and strong community here in Thame."

Craig Dransfield, head of development at Soha Housing, added: "This is an exciting community-led housing scheme.

"Soha is looking forward to completing the homes - our second net zero carbon scheme - and letting them to residents, where we hope they’ll be very happy.

"We hope to deliver many more in partnership with South Oxfordshire District Council."

The 48 properties will support the council’s Housing Delivery Strategy to provide access to suitable, affordable homes for local people.

The council said this will help it to address a long-term issue of the availability of affordable housing for people in South Oxfordshire, which is an expensive place to rent or buy on the open market.