A planning application for a larger site area proposing  up to 90 new homes was submitted in 2014 and was determined by the Secretary of State in 2016.  The application was refused due to the conflict with the Neighbourhood Plan and it was concluded that the buildings should not extend onto the upper slopes of the northern part of the site. The inspector agreed with the Parish and the District Landscape assessment that the development should be limited to the southern portion of the land that did not involve development rising up the hill.  It was concluded however that even for this larger previous scheme – there would be no adverse impact on the setting of the battlefield, that there would no severe transport impact, and that the site is in a sustainable location.

This outline planning application seeks to establish the principle of residential development on the lower part of the site and address the previous concerns raised by the Secretary of State.  The quantum of development has been reduced to 50 homes and the development does not extend up the slopes to the north.

Matters of detail, such as design, layout, appearance and landscaping will be the subject of a future Reserved Matters planning application – subject to the grant of outline planning permission.

Outline planning permission is being sought for the development of up to 50 new homes, including public open space and a new play area. The scheme also includes provision for 35% affordable housing.

As illustrated on the masterplan, the development proposals consist of:

• Up to 50 dwellings, including 35% affordable housing.

• New vehicular access from Banbury Road

• Green infrastructure, public open space and informal recreation and play area.

• Creation of new ponds and sustainable urban drainage system.

• Retained trees and hedgerows, and new supplemental planting.

• Habitat creation and Biodiversity Net Gain

Sharba Homes are working to create a sustainable community which benefits from excellent green infrastructure to create a permeable network for existing and future residents. The masterplan proposals have been designed carefully following the completion of technical studies and demonstrate the suitability of the Site for development.

PLANNING CONTEXT

With more recent changes in planning policy, a clear Government mandate to deliver more housing, a Nationwide and Districtwide shortfall in housing supply, Sharba Homes feel it is an appropriate time to pursue an application which meets a local district need in a sustainable location and addresses the previous concerns.