Applicant PL Homes has submitted plans to develop homes on land at Paddocks Lane in East Hanney, a proposal that has already prompted responses from local residents and the East Hanney Parish Council.
As of now, 11 residents have registered their objections with the Vale of White Horse District Council. The East Hanney Parish Council has also expressed its strong opposition to the proposal. Their statement emphasized that the application violates both district and neighborhood plan policies established to protect East Hanney’s character.
A council comment highlighted: “The parish council strongly objects to this application for multiple reasons. It breaches both the district and East Hanney Neighbourhood Plan’s policies. The nature of the development is inappropriate for this part of the village and disregards the guidelines specified in the Neighbourhood Plan Design Guide. The proposed development threatens the character of East Hanney.”
Resident Cathy McClelland, residing on Main Street, echoed these concerns, saying, “The use of the paddocks for pedestrian access is unsafe. The driveway is unlit and too narrow for both vehicles and pedestrians. An alternative connection via an existing path on Blenheim Orchard would be safer. Furthermore, work has already begun without planning permission, causing drainage issues.”
Another resident, Mat Dobson of Main Street, argued the application fails to meet standards for sustainable and safe development. He called for the council to reject the proposal, sanction the unauthorized work already done, and restore the area’s biodiversity.
The developer has responded with planning documents outlining modifications since their initial application was rejected in April. They detailed, “This new application addresses previous concerns by altering the proposal to use an approved access via Godfrey Close. It reduces the building impact on neighboring properties with lower ridge heights and adds five valuable homes to help meet the national housing demand.”
Their planning statement expressed: “The development will make optimal use of the site, providing an appealing environment for new residents while respecting the amenities of neighboring properties. It embodies high quality and respects the local character.”
For more information on local developments or to get involved in community discussions, browse the directory and events or submit a listing to participate in shaping the future of East Hanney.
