West Oxfordshire District Council has paused the planning process for Salt Cross Garden Village (SCGV) while they seek clarification from Government on whether their original, ambitious net-zero plans can proceed.
While the High Court success of Rights Community Action (RCA) put a stop to the Planning Inspectorate’s move to limit the net-zero ambitions in the SCGV plans, there has been a new Written Ministerial Statement which restricts what the District Council is able to stipulate in regards net-zero.
The District Council has paused the planning process while they seek permission from the Government to amend the policy and allow the ambitious net-zero targets to be re-instated.
Leader of the District Council, Cllr Andy Graham, explained:
“Our initial plans for Salt Cross included a ground-breaking, highly ambitious policy that would require the whole development to be net zero carbon in operation… We have also calculated it would be financially viable to deliver.
“The community told us they wanted this policy, they fought for it in the courts on our behalf. We now feel we need to speak to the current Government to try and change the most recent Written Ministerial Statement and protect the policy that our communities want.”
While the process of seeking clarification will further delay the planning process for SCGV, the District Council believe it is the “right thing to do” to “make the changes we need for a brighter, greener future that delivers the homes we need.”
Eynsham Parish Council will continue to monitor this and inform residents when we have any further updates to share.
Read the full press release from the District Council on their website: West Oxfordshire District Council to push for net zero ambitions at Salt Cross | West Oxfordshire District Council News