Housing scheme next to South Oxfordshire village refused

04 Jun 2018

Planning and Environment

An inspector has rejected proposals for a 60-dwelling scheme on land next to the village of Tetsworth in South Oxfordshire.

Although at the inquiry it had been common ground that the local planning authority was unable to demonstrate a five-year supply of housing sites, the proposals were contrary to the development plan spatial strategy; would cause significant and demonstrable harm to the character and appearance of the area, with particular harm to those undertaking recreation on the public rights of way network and to the outlook of local residents; would be out of keeping with the pattern of development in the village; and would not be located where the need to travel would be minimised and the use of sustainable transport modes maximised.

The economic and social benefits of the scheme were significantly outweighed by the social and environmental harms. Robin appeared for the local planning authority.