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Planning appeal into housing between Banbury and Hanwell underway
04/06/2024
Cherwell’s councillors rejected the application for 170 houses, but the developer has appealed
An appeal hearing into Cherwell District Council’s decision to refuse outline planning permission for 170 houses in the remaining fields between Banbury and Hanwell is underway.
The Vistry Group wanted to create the new development in the fields to the east of the Warwick Road. Their application was unanimously rejected by members of the Planning Committee in August last year. 489 people had objected to the proposals, with only a handful of support.
Vistry’s case is based on its claims that the Council cannot demonstrate the minimum 5-year land supply – a vital figure of how many houses are due to be built. If this figure is not met decision makers must give greater weight to allowing new housing so as to achieve the required level, with the importance of other factors severely reduced.
In summarising the case of Vistry’s consultant said: “It is considered that the proposal does not result in any adverse impacts that significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits.”
In defence of its decision Cherwell District Council commissioned work by a chartered town planner who’s work includes five year housing land supply assessments. His finding contradict those of the developer.
In his report from May this year Jonathan Goodall wrote: “My overall conclusion is that the Council can demonstrate 5.72 years’ deliverable supply against the relevant housing requirement.”
The Inspector has scheduled 6 days for the appeal hearing, which is being held in the Council Chamber at Bodicote House.
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam