Plans for a 2,200-home garden village at Salt Cross have been given a huge boost after the Planning Inspectorate endorsed West Oxfordshire District Council’s vision.
The Area Action Plan (AAP) for Salt Cross Garden Village, north of the A40 near Eynsham, was given the thumbs up in a report just published.
The outline plans were first submitted to the council by Grosvenor Developments in 2020 but legal challenges have delayed it. The inspector’s report, which supports the council’s net zero policy, now allows it to proceed.
Cllr Hugo Ashton, executive member for planning, said: “This is a huge moment for Salt Cross and for West Oxfordshire. Salt Cross is all about doing things differently.
“From the beginning, we’ve worked to prove that net zero development can be practical, viable and legally robust, and I am extremely proud that we have been able to achieve that.
“This plan shows that strong local ambition, backed by evidence and community support, can create a framework for better, climate-conscious places. We could not have achieved this without the continued positive support by campaign groups such as Rights Community Action.
“We’re delighted that Salt Cross can now move into the next phase with a clear direction and strong support from the Oxford Growth Commission.”
As well as 2,200 homes, the plans offer:
- 40 hectares of employment land
- Schools, community facilities and green infrastructure
- Walking, cycling and public transport routes
- A country park
Cllr Andy Graham, leader of the council, said: “Salt Cross has always aimed high, and the Inspector’s report shows that we were right to do so.
“It’s proof that local leadership matters. Despite legal challenges and changing national policy, we’ve held the line and delivered a robust, ambitious plan that responds directly to the challenges we face, from the climate emergency to the need for well-planned, sustainable growth.
“Salt Cross will be a place that reflects the values of our district – sustainable, forward-looking, and built to last. We also hope it will serve as a model for other local authorities seeking to deliver genuinely climate-conscious development through the planning system. The lessons from Salt Cross can help raise the bar nationally.”
The council’s executive will review the inspector’s report and its findings at its February 11 meeting. The report will then be considered for adoption at a full council meeting on February 25.
Visit: https://www.saltcross.co.uk/
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