District council planners have begrudgingly approved a scheme for nine new homes in an Oxfordshire village, fearing they would lose an appeal if it was refused. The scheme will see the homes replace one in Lower Icknield Way in Chinnor. The application, submitted from BHK Icknield, was previously refused for 10 homes. It was dismissed at an appeal but the inspector agreed with the principal of the development. South Oxfordshire District Council's planning committee approved the scheme on Wednesday, October 30.
Objections have been raised by locals as well as Chinnor Parish Council. A total of 26 people submitted their opposition.
Jackie Webb, chairwoman of amenities and environment on Chinnor Parish Council, said: “We object in the strongest terms to the recommendations. The parish council's views are material to planning and not unreasonable. “The proposed development on this site does not meet the housing needs specified in Chinnor's neighbourhood plan. “Young people growing up in Chinnor have to move away because the village can't support their housing needs. There is increasing need for housing for the elderly in Chinnor. “The parish council urges the planning committee not to accept the officers' recommendation and to continue to refuse this and any other future applications on this site for market value housing.”