Cling Clang field - Plot 1 appeal dismissed….but new application for 8 units is made

The Planning Inspectorate has dismissed the planning appeal by the owner of Plot 1 of Cling Clang fields in the heart of Church Enstone. The appeal followed West Oxfordshire District Council's refusal of planning permission in May 2024. The decision is significant as Plot 1 has the easiest access of all the 24 plots sold at auction. The plot holder had initially sought 'permission in principle'.  A permission in principle stage establishes if:

'a site is suitable for residential development, having regard to its location, the proposed land use, and the amount of development, with particular regard to the development strategy for the area, the character of the area, and access to services and facilities.'

The inspector considered each of these issues in their dismissal. The full appeal decision can be found here https://tinyurl.com/bdzzdmsd and although lengthy, it is written in plain English and is worth reading.

Unfortunately a fresh planning application for ‘permission in principle’ for 8 units has been submitted over two plots.  This is for a Rural Exception site for 100% affordable housing.  ENCON will review the planning application and submit our comments in due course.  In the ruling the dismissed the previous appeal, the inspector concluded by noting

“the proposal would result in environmental harm from the effect of the development on the character and appearance of the area. The harm that I have found is significant and I afford it significant weight.” 

We hope and expect WODC to take a similar view as we think this site is unsuitable for development.