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At its Planning Committee meeting on 27 November 2024, Wallingford Town Council strongly opposed the application for the development of 480 homes on land west of Shillingford Road – development plan by Croudace Group (application P24/S3841/O). The council will recommend that South Oxfordshire District Council (SODC) refuse this proposal, citing multiple planning, environmental, and infrastructure concerns.
Key Objections
- Non-Compliance with Development Plans: The site is not allocated for housing in either the South Oxfordshire Local Plan (SOLP) 2035 or the Wallingford Neighbourhood Plan (WNP). Both statutory plans designate this land for mineral safeguarding, not residential development. Wallingford has already exceeded its housing target of 1,070 homes by delivering 1,435 homes, leaving no further requirement for additional allocations.
- Traffic and Transport Impacts: The proposed development would generate unsustainable traffic increases, exacerbating congestion on the narrow Shillingford Road and the Grade II* Shillingford Bridge. Construction traffic would further strain Wallingford’s historic town centre. The application’s pedestrian and cycle access proposals are inadequate and fail to meet Oxfordshire County Council’s standards for shared-use paths.
- Environmental and Heritage Concerns: The site lies adjacent to the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and development would harm important views, biodiversity, and open countryside. Additionally, the land is classified as Grade 1 (Excellent) agricultural land, which should be preserved for its ecological and agricultural value.
- Insufficient Infrastructure: Wallingford’s existing infrastructure cannot support this development. Essential services such as water supply and sewage are already at capacity. The Environment Agency has classified the region as “seriously water-stressed,” further emphasizing the unsuitability of this proposal.
- Archaeological Significance: The site has considerable archaeological potential, given its proximity to the historic Wallingford Castle and ancient roadways. The council insists on a full archaeological excavation prior to any determination or construction.
Councillor Statement: Cllr Hendrie, who proposed the objection, stated: “Wallingford has already exceeded its housing targets, and this proposal undermines the town’s carefully planned development strategy. It fails to align with our Local and Neighbourhood Plans and would impose unacceptable pressure on our infrastructure, environment, and community.”
Next Steps: Wallingford Town Council has formally submitted its objections to SODC, urging the Planning Authority to reject this application. Residents are encouraged to share their views through the SODC planning portal.