A NEW model for bringing disused buildings back to life could be rolled out across the city after the success of a pilot project.

The organisers of Makespace in Jericho, which has transformed a rundown office building earmarked for redevelopment, say it has provided a lifeline for dozens of artists and community groups who would otherwise have 'no chance' of affording rents in Oxford.

At the official launch of the building in Aristotle Lane on Saturday, those involved said they are now turning their attention to securing other sites to set up similar schemes, with a view to constantly having places on offer.

Empty shops, offices and other buildings awaiting permanent re-development could all be given new uses as temporary bases for community groups.

The Jericho building, previously the offices of Oxford Illustrators, has been let to Makespace for two years by Wadham College, who will then redevelop it for housing.

Since February volunteers have been making it fit for purpose - removing asbestos and replacing electrics - and it is now home to various groups including architecture firm Transition by Design, the Community Action Group Network and tailors Oxford Alterations.

Co-director Andy Edwards said: "Empty buildings in Oxford is becoming a bit of an epidemic, particularly with the number of closed shops in the city centre.

"There will always be a changeover period for any building and we feel that rather than leaving them empty, let's put them to use.

"For a new group or business, this can be the difference between thriving and failing.

"Everyone knows rents are too expensive in the city and without things like this, many would be forced to move elsewhere."

Makespace has been kitted out in a way that allows much of the fixtures and fittings to be moved on, when the time comes.

Downstairs, hot-desking space is available while artists can also display and sell their work.

The low rents paid by tenants are reinvested in the scheme and another co-director, Paul Roberts, describes being 'inundated' with interest, despite minimal advertising.

He believes other property owners will have seen the success of the project and be inspired to consider something similar for their own buildings as it can bring both financial and security benefits.

For one of the new tenants, the Young Women's Music Project, Makespace could be 'transformative', according to organiser Zahra Haji Fath Ali Tehrani.

After operating out of a storage cupboard in East Oxford for years, the group, who work with women aged 14-21, now have their own space to run workshops and lessons.

She said: "This is what we have needed for so long, we are so excited about what we can do now."