Timber frame house firm Stewart Milne Timber Systems is looking to build on the success of a pioneering project.

The company has appointed the former managing director of its Witney operation, Stewart Dalgarno, to a new position of product development director for the group, which also has a Scottish base.

Mr Dalgarno's promotion follows his work on developing the UK's first five-star rated near-zero carbon house that meets the Government's new Code for Sustainable Homes.

Mr Dalgarno said: "Creating this dedicated position will enable us to continue to set the standard in meeting the challenges of the construction industry in the future and ensure our vision of advancing tomorrow's technology is achieved."

In his new role, Mr Dalgarno will be responsible for developing new technologies and building methods and will continue to be based in Witney. John Slater, managing director of homes at the Stewart Milne Group, said: "We are committed to embracing new and innovative methods of construction that will exceed customer expectation, Government objectives and our corporate social responsibilities."

Now the hunt is on for Mr Dalgarno's replacement as managing director at the Witney plant, which started six years ago and employs 200 workers.