Plans for major development in Steventon after refusal two years ago

Steventon: Developer Saxonville wants to build 12 homes and 12 flats. They also plan to add two business units and 15 parking spaces on High Street.

In 2022, they submitted a plan for 13 homes and two business units. The Vale of White Horse District Council recommended approval, but the planning committee refused it in 2023. The developer appealed, but a planning inspector dismissed it last September.

One reason for refusal was access issues if the turntables broke down. This could affect highway safety. Another reason was that the project was seen as too much for the site.

The new plan includes 12 homes, six one-bedroom flats, and six two-bedroom flats. It also features a bike store in the existing barn, two commercial units, 15 parking spaces, and 42 cycle spaces.

The planning statement says the existing barn will stay, but other buildings will be demolished. New buildings will replace them. The High Street area will have parking and a small outdoor space for the new businesses.

The previous plan had support from professionals but was still refused. The inspector noted concerns about vehicle turntables and a detached unit.

The applicant has now changed the plan. They removed the turntables and the detached dwelling. This change reduced the number of homes and parking spaces needed.

The removal of the detached unit allows for more green space and landscaping. This will benefit local biodiversity.

The developer hopes to get planning permission to redevelop this brownfield site. They believe it will provide much-needed housing and improve the area’s character.