West Oxfordshire District Council’s vision for Salt Cross Garden Village—a carbon-neutral community to be built to the north of the A40 near Eynsham—has been endorsed by a government-appointed Planning Inspector.
The Inspector has confirmed that the Salt Cross Area Action Plan (AAP) meets national planning rules and can now move towards final approval.
Councillor Hugo Ashton, executive member for planning, said: “This is a huge moment for Salt Cross and for West Oxfordshire.
“Salt Cross is all about doing things differently.
“From the beginning, we’ve worked to prove that net zero development can be practical, viable and legally robust, and I am extremely proud that we have been able to achieve that.
“This plan shows that strong local ambition, backed by evidence and community support, can create a framework for better, climate-conscious places.
“We could not have achieved this without the continued positive support by campaign groups such as Rights Community Action.
“We’re delighted that Salt Cross can now move into the next phase with a clear direction and strong support from the Oxford Growth Commission.”
The AAP outlines a strategy to deliver a “climate-conscious, well-designed and future-ready” community.
The development will include around 2,200 homes, 40 hectares of employment land, schools, community facilities and green infrastructure.
It also promises improved transport links, with safe and direct routes for walking, cycling and public transport.
Councillor Andy Graham, leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Salt Cross has always aimed high, and the Inspector’s report shows that we were right to do so.
“It’s proof that local leadership matters.
“Despite legal challenges and changing national policy, we’ve held the line and delivered a robust, ambitious plan that responds directly to the challenges we face, from the climate emergency to the need for well-planned, sustainable growth.
“Salt Cross will be a place that reflects the values of our district – sustainable, forward-looking, and built to last.
“We also hope it will serve as a model for other local authorities seeking to deliver genuinely climate-conscious development through the planning system.
“The lessons from Salt Cross can help raise the bar nationally.”
The plan’s net zero policy sets ambitious energy efficiency requirements for new buildings.
This element was examined in detail during an extended examination process and was confirmed as justified, effective, and fit for purpose.
The council’s executive will consider the Inspector’s report at its meeting on Wednesday, February 11.
If approved, the AAP will go to full council on Wednesday, February 25 for formal adoption.
Once adopted, the AAP will guide future planning applications and infrastructure decisions for Salt Cross.
An outline planning application for the site is already under review.
Further detailed applications will follow in due course.
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