Cherwell Council's Dilemma About This Application

 Cherwell Council is in a difficult position as a result of recent changes to Government Planning Policy (the NPPF) which substantially weaken Green Belt protection and increase local authority housing targets for areas like Cherwell by almost 60%.

We consider the new Green Belt rules to be an egregious and deceitful move by Government to dismantle the long established and highly popular Green Belt policy. Under the new rules, more than half of the Green Belt (probably much more) could be classed as “Grey Belt”. The Government originally described Grey Belt as Green Belt land that was previously developed and now in poor condition, such as the much quoted example of a derelict petrol station. However the reality is that completely undeveloped open countryside, such as the Land North of the Moors, may now be considered as Grey Belt.

Furthermore, Cherwell’s housing target has increased by almost 60% as a result of the new Government’s changes. This and a recent court decision mean that it can only demonstrate a future supply of housing for 2.3 years ahead as compared with the 5 years required. In this situation there is a presumption in favour of approving acceptable developments even if they are not allocated in a Local Plan.

It is possible therefore that Cherwell Officers and the Planning Committee will feel they have no choice but to approve this (and similar) applications. We need as many as possible to object and show the importance of keeping this land completely open and green to our community.

As stated earlier, should this outline application be approved, KDW would wish to make constructive comments on the further application(s) which would be necessary to approve the detailed matters such as the layout of the site and the design of the buildings. It could also be an opportunity to make comments on the use of the proposed large area of open space. Should it, for example be used for formal sports (cricket pitches), informal recreation or nature conservation or a combination of these and/or other uses? We would also encourage you to do the same.