Local News · Wiltshire-wide
Public inquiry underway for 200-home development at Shrivenham golf course
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
A public inquiry is currently considering a controversial proposal to build 200 homes on land currently used by Shrivenham Park Golf Club, raising concerns about the loss of a vital green gap between villages.
A long-running debate over the future of Shrivenham Park Golf Club has entered a critical stage as a public inquiry examines plans to construct 200 new homes on the site. Bloor Homes has submitted proposals to develop approximately 13 acres of the 70-acre golf course, arguing that the project is necessary to provide affordable housing and improved local infrastructure.
The application, which has drawn over 300 objections from local residents, has reignited concerns regarding the preservation of the green space separating the villages of Shrivenham and Watchfield. Opponents of the scheme, including Charlie Maynard, the MP for Witney, have expressed strong disapproval of the plans. Mr Maynard stated that the site is unsuitable for development, citing national planning policy that protects sports and recreational land unless it is proven to be surplus or can be replaced with equal facilities.
Beyond the loss of recreational space, critics have raised significant environmental and infrastructure concerns. Mr Maynard highlighted the potential destruction of 241 mature trees and noted the persistent issues with the nearby Shrivenham Sewage Treatment Works. He pointed to figures suggesting the facility has discharged sewage for over 1,600 hours during the past year, raising doubts about the area's capacity to support further residential expansion.
The impact on local biodiversity is also a point of contention, with opponents warning of negative consequences for Tuckmill Meadows, a nearby nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. The club itself remains committed to its current operations, stating it has no plans to close and will continue to serve its 400 members and local community groups as long as it remains viable.
Bloor Homes has defended its proposal by committing to include 35 per cent affordable housing and a new community facility. A spokesperson for the developer added that they intend to maintain a substantial permanent green gap between the two villages, with the majority of the site being retained as public open space.
This is not the first time the site has faced such a challenge, with a similar planning application having been rejected approximately seven years ago. The current public inquiry, which commenced on 22 September, will determine whether the development can proceed. Residents remain closely engaged as the inquiry weighs the demand for new homes against the protection of existing community and environmental assets.
Source: Swindon Advertiser · View original