Planning Application Details

The proposal would be inappropriate development in the green belt which according to the National Planning Policy Framework is, by definition harmful to the openness of the green belt and substantial weight has to be given to that harm. No very special circumstances have been provided with this application which would outweigh this harm. As such it is not acceptable in principle and is contrary to advice set out in the Framework.

The Development Plan identifies appropriate locations for new dwellings in the district. New dwellings within the Green Belt will not be allowed unless the development falls within strictly defined criteria. Beckley is one of the villages within the district where the principle of infill development is acceptable. However, the site lies outside the village of Beckley in an isolated ribbon of development. The site does not constitute infill development and is therefore considered as inappropriate development to the detriment of the openness and visual amenity of the Oxford Green Belt. As such, the proposal is contrary to policies CSR1 and CSEN2 of the South Oxfordshire Core Strategy 2027, saved Policy GB4 of the South Oxfordshire Local Plan and the guidance set out within the National Planning Policy Framework 2012.

The proposal will intensify the use of the existing access arrangements on the highway with no option for two vehicles to pass. Insufficient information has been submitted in order to demonstrate the appropriateness of this development with regard to the access and egress onto the site and vision splays. As such, the proposal is contrary to saved Policy T1 of the adopted South Oxfordshire Local Plan and guidance set out within the National Planning Policy Framework 2012.