Developer Rectory Homes’ plan to build houses on land near Chain Hill Road on the outskirts of Wantage has faced significant pushback from local councils and residents.
Nine objections have been lodged with the Vale of White Horse District Council, alongside objections from Wantage Town Council.
Council’s Objections
The council stated, “We consider this to be inappropriate development in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and it would result in significant harm.” They further added, “The site is outside the Wantage settlement boundary and is not included in the local plan. Access to the site would be extremely problematic.”
Local Residents’ Concerns
Linda Mason, a local resident, voiced her objection by stating, “This large development should not be permitted as it will be outside of the permitted development boundary. It will create a spike of development into the countryside.” She also expressed concerns about road safety, citing poor visibility and increased traffic.
Meanwhile, the Wantage and Grove Campaign Group raised the issue of surface water runoff, which could potentially impact existing properties. They emphasized the need for more details from Rectory Homes and further assurance from qualified drainage officers.
Additionally, local residents Mr. and Mrs. Couch highlighted concerns about the ongoing overdevelopment of Wantage, stating it places significant pressure on local services such as the NHS and schools.
Developer’s Response
Rectory Homes defended the proposed development, stating, “The design reflects the immediate residential character and assimilates into the built-up landscape character. It exceeds local and national requirements, therefore providing the public benefit.”
They also argued that the development could be regarded as ‘infill development,’ given its location among existing residential properties. Furthermore, the developers emphasized the site’s accessibility to local services via sustainable transport modes and highlighted provisions such as affordable housing, open spaces, and biodiversity net gains as public benefits.
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