Northways bench for
Osney Lock Hydro, Oxford

We were thrilled to be commissioned to make a bench for the site of this lovely sustainable energy project. Osney Lock Hydro is the first community owned hydro scheme on the river Thames. It began generating electricity in 2015 and powers more than 60 homes.

The site is designed to enable the public to see the massive archimedean screw turning and generating electricity, with views through big glass windows lit by the transparent roof above. An Oxford Oak bench was originally envisaged by the architect, Richard Hammond, to provide a good view of both the screw and the river basin.

Barbara Hammond, Director of Osney Lock Hydro chose an oak Northways bench as its minimalist design complements the hydro building. It has been hand carved with a dedication to the architect of the scheme. Installed April 2025.

You can visit the hydro scheme and try out the bench on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-5pm.