Up to 58 more homes approved at Bretch Hill

Plans have been approved for up to 58 homes on the western edge of Banbury.

Outline plans by Lone Star Land for the third of three similarly-sized developments at Bretch Hill was approved by Cherwell District Council’s planning committee on March 19.

The two previous schemes of 49 homes are already under construction. The new development will include a 30 per cent proportion of affordable homes.

Views expressed

Cllr Ian Harwood put forward a host of objections to the proposal for the five-hectare site, which was not allocated in the Local Plan.

But Andrew Wilkins, chief executive of Lone Star Land, told the meeting: “The application generates significant public benefits. The scheme will deliver at least 30 per cent affordable housing including both affordable rent and shared ownership, helping to meet an acute district-wide need.

“The proposal includes a combined LEAP/LAP (locally-equipped area of play) and (local area of play) which will be accessible to the wider community. This will be delivered alongside meaningful open space and biodiversity enhancement areas which accounts for approximately 60 per cent of the site area.

“The development will also create construction jobs, support local spending and help sustain local services.”

Councillors asked for the signing of a s106 agreement to be included as a condition. The plan was passed by 11 votes to two with two abstension.