Last week, I was pleased to meet members of Hanwell Parish Council and local residents to discuss their concerns about local development.
I have been made aware that Vistry Group recently announced plans to construct 170 homes to the east of Warwick Road (B4100). The proposals are causing considerable concern in the village, as they exceed the area identified for development under the current Local Plan - with houses extending to the outer boundary of Hanwell at Gullicott Lane. I understand that the proposed developers are promoting this site under Cherwell's Local Plan Review.
While Cherwell has long been one of the most successful housebuilding districts in the country, I have always felt that we must approach local development in a considerate and sustainable manner. The growth of our towns must be supported, but only where there is sufficient infrastructure and where it will not have a detrimental impact on surrounding communities.
Given the understandable strength of feeling which these proposals are causing, I therefore agreed to write to the Chief Executive of Cherwell District Council, Yvonne Rees, to highlight local concerns. You can find my letter at the link below.
