Oxfordshire planners target large-scale housing schemes

Oxfordshire planners are targeting what they describe as "nationally recognised groundbreaking development projects" to meet a spurt in housing demand in the area.

Cherwell District Council development services manager Jon Westerman told Planning: "This is a progressive, commercially focused authority delivering some of the UK's most exciting development management projects.

"These ambitious, innovative developments include a scheme for 6,000 homes with the highest eco credentials in the country.

"Currently under construction, this scheme was part of the justification for the government awarding Bicester garden town status earlier this year."

Graven Hill meanwhile is set to become the UK's "largest, most innovative self-build community delivered by the first large-scale residential local development order", he said.

Graven Hill Development Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Cherwell District Council.

The council has several new job opportunities for planners, senior planners and principal planners.

“This is a great time for Cherwell, particularly as we have recently adopted a new local plan", said Westerman.

“Unlike many other local authorities, we can now also demonstrate a five-year housing land supply; a key government target set out in the National Planning Policy Framework.

“Several things are driving the agenda for growth: the economy is picking up; we are in a strategically important geographic location, close to the M40; and Cherwell takes a very proactive approach in bringing forward sustainable development.”

Has your organisation recently made a new appointment or promotion? If so, please let us know by emailing planning@haymarket.com

Image: Artist's image of Bicester garden town. Picture: A2Dominion and NW Bicester