As part of our Housing Land Supply Tracker, we are closely monitoring housing land supplies across Oxfordshire. In this update, we’re sharing news on West Oxfordshire so that you are aware of the changes and how this might impact your current or future applications.
The appeal for 134 dwellings at Land south of Burford Road, Minster Lovell was heard at a public inquiry in February 2024. The appellant contested the housing land supply position in West Oxfordshire and presented evidence that demonstrated a housing supply of 3.86 years, despite the Council’s position of 5.41 years.
On 28 March 2024, the appeal was allowed, and the inspector concluded that there is a supply of 2,498 homes (4.38 years supply). Therefore, West Oxfordshire District Council cannot demonstrate a 5-year supply of housing land.
It should be noted that councils only need to demonstrate a 4-year housing land supply where they have published a policy map and housing allocations as part of their local plan preparation, according to the revised National Planning Policy Framework published in December 2023.
West Oxfordshire District Council appears to be making moves to benefit from this new 4-year rule, as it is now in the process of preparing its Local Plan 2041 and it’s anticipated that the Council will publish its policy map and allocations in June 2024.
With new rules for local plans on the horizon, most local authorities are progressing local plans and are looking to identify additional housing sites. We expect housing supply and delivery to be a hot topic in the 2024 election year, with Labour committing to mandatory housing targets.
When new information emerges, we will be sure to update you. Watch this space!
We work closely with both landowners and developers to gain consent for housing sites to address housing shortfalls in the area. Get in contact with our experienced planners via enquiries@edgarslimited.co.uk or call 01865 731700 if you have a potential housing site and we’ll be happy to advise you.
You might also be interested in: Housing Land Supply Tracker: New 4-year rule