West Oxfordshire District Council has confirmed that their Net Zero policy for the Salt Cross development has been approved by the Planning Inspectorate. It was found to be in line with national policy and sound, with a few minor modifications.
The District Council has hailed the decision as a “major milestone” in what has been a protracted tussle over ambitious environmental considerations in the plans for the new development.
The original Net Zero policy was heavily amended by the Planning Inspectorate and claimed to not be in line with national policy. This decision was challenged in the High Court and overturned, thanks to the efforts of Rights Community Action, supported by those who donated to the CrowdFunding campaign.
Following the High Court ruling, the District Council was invited to re-submit their Net Zero policy for review. This policy has now been approved by the Planning Inspectorate, with only minor modifications. This decision will ensure that all buildings at Salt Cross will be net zero carbon in operation and is a significant moment, making Salt Cross an “exemplar development” and raising standards nationally in terms of environmental considerations.
Cllr Andy Graham, Leader of the District Council, said this decision “shows what’s possible when councils are prepared to lead with ambition, work with communities and push for the highest standards in housing and place-making.”
The required modifications to the policy are around clarity and reducing duplication, as well as ensuring the policy reflects evolving technological standards to allow it to remain applicable over multi-year projects. Once the policy has been amended, there will be another period of public consultation. All comments will be reviewed by the Planning Inspector before the policy is confirmed, at which point the planning application process can commence.
While the timetable is still being agreed, the District Council suggest that the first homes will be built on the site in 2029/2030.
We will keep residents informed as soon as we hear more and share any details on the next consultation.