Planning inspector says no to Hook Norton sledging field housing
21/01/2026
The applicant appealed against the council’s original refusal decision
A planning appeal for up to five new homes on land north of Burycroft Road in Hook Norton has been dismissed by a government-appointed inspector.
The appeal was submitted by Mr and Mrs Reynolds after Cherwell District Council’s planning officers refused permission in principle. They felt, as the proposed development lay outside the built-up limits of Hook Norton it was an unjustified extension into the open countryside, causing harm to the rural character and appearance of the area.
The planning inspector, Oliver Marigold, visited the site earlier this month and agreed.
He felt that whilst the site was found to have reasonable access to local services and facilities, the benefits of providing three to five dwellings carried only moderate weight in planning terms. These benefits were judged to be outweighed by conflict with local planning policies protecting landscape character.
The appeal was dismissed on this basis.
Historically during wintery weather the field has been used by Hook Norton villagers for sledging. The application had drawn a large number of objections from local people. One, Richard Taylor, wrote: “This land has been an important part of village life for generations. It holds historical and emotional value for the community and contributes to the rural character of the area.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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