The Development Management Sub-Committee of West Oxfordshire Council met on 08 June 2026, with Councillor Andy Goodwin elected as Chair. The committee considered several planning applications, with a key decision being the deferral of the Land West of Coombe Road, Stonesfield application for a site visit.

Land West of Coombe Road, Stonesfield

Outline planning permission was sought for 20 dwellings on land west of Coombe Road in Stonesfield. Objectors raised concerns about housing demand, sustainability, pedestrian safety, and water supply, highlighting the lack of a housing needs assessment and the site's location within the Cotswolds National Landscape. Supporters argued for the urgent need for affordable housing and the benefits of reusing a vacant building. Officers noted that the council cannot demonstrate a five-year housing land supply, engaging the NPPF's tilted balance in favour of development. While acknowledging less than substantial harm to the Conservation Area and heritage assets, officers concluded that the public benefits, particularly the provision of 10 affordable homes and nature enhancement of the wider field, outweighed these harms. However, following extensive debate and questions regarding the impact on the landscape and heritage assets, Councillor Vizzi proposed deferring the decision for a site visit, which was unanimously agreed by the committee.

Well Cottage, Thames Street, Charlbury

Permission was sought for the conversion of an existing garage and former workshop building at Well Cottage, Thames Street, Charlbury, into a separate two-bedroom dwelling. Charlbury Town Council objected primarily on the grounds of inadequate parking provision and non-compliance with neighbourhood plan policies. The applicant's representative stated that the proposal met Oxfordshire County Council's parking standards and included provision for one parking space within the garage, along with cycle parking and electric car charging. Officers recommended approval, noting the reuse of an existing building in a sustainable town centre location and the lack of objections from technical consultees. Following discussion on parking, the addition of a swift box, and potential contamination from former petrol tanks, the committee voted to approve the application with additional conditions, including a construction management plan if deemed necessary following contamination investigation.

Play Area, Windmill Road, North Leigh

The committee considered an application for the replacement of an existing hard-surfaced play area with a new fenced multi-use games area (MUGA) at the play area off Windmill Road, North Leigh. The application was brought before the committee as the land is owned by West Oxfordshire District Council. Councillor David Harris, speaking on behalf of North Leigh Parish Council, highlighted the need for a facility for older children and confirmed that funding was secured from a developer contribution. Officers recommended approval, noting that the principle of use was already established and there were no objections on design, ecology, heritage, or flood risk grounds, subject to conditions. The committee unanimously approved the application.

The Fox Inn, 27 Enstone Road, Middle Barton

Listed building consent was sought for internal alterations at The Fox Inn, Middle Barton, including the opening up of an existing doorway and works to the inglenook fireplace. The application was retrospective, as the works had already been carried out. The Parish Council supported the application, arguing that the alterations were beneficial for the pub's viability and community value, despite acknowledging less than substantial harm. The applicant's heritage statement also argued that the works improved circulation and created a more inclusive space, with public benefits outweighing the harm. However, the Council's Conservation Officer and Historic England objected, stating that the works had caused less than substantial harm and recommended reinstatement of the inglenook fireplace. Officers recommended refusal, concluding that the works were not necessary for the pub's optimum viable use and that the identified harm was not outweighed by public benefits. Following extensive debate, including passionate arguments from local ward member Councillor David Jackson about the pub's importance to the community and the applicant's investment, the committee voted to approve the application against officer recommendations by a narrow margin of 5-4, with 5 abstentions.

Cherry Tree Cottage, Lower End, Salford

The committee considered an application for a change of use from a holiday let to a dwelling at Cherry Tree Cottage, Lower End, Salford. Salford Parish Council objected, citing incremental residential intensification, lack of demonstrated need, and potential harm to the Cotswolds National Landscape. Objectors also raised concerns about car dependency and precedent. The applicant's case highlighted the need to downsize due to medical conditions and the declining viability of the holiday let. Officers recommended approval, noting that the council cannot demonstrate a five-year housing land supply, engaging the NPPF's tilted balance. They concluded that there were no identified harms and that the proposal represented an acceptable form of development. The committee approved the application by a vote of 9-4, with one abstention.

3 Church View, Bampton (Application 26/00396/LBC)

Listed building consent was sought for internal alterations at 3 Church View, Bampton, to create a new loft access opening. The application was brought to the committee as the applicant is an elected member. The proposal involved relocating a loft hatch for improved access and integrating a ladder. The Conservation Officer raised no objection, and officers recommended approval. The committee unanimously approved the application.

Asthall Manor, Asthall

Listed building consent was sought for internal alterations at Asthall Manor, Asthall, to include the installation of internal wall insulation to improve thermal performance. The application was presented to the committee as the applicant is an elected member. The proposal involved stripping back existing plaster and applying a thin, breathable Aerogel quilt with lime plaster. The Conservation Officer supported the proposal, subject to conditions, noting the system's vapour-open nature and minimal impact on internal joinery. Officers recommended approval, concluding that the works would preserve the building's historic interest. The committee unanimously approved the application.

3 Church View, Bampton (Application 26/00853/HHD)

Planning permission was sought for the erection of a detached garden studio at 3 Church View, Bampton. The application was presented to the committee as the applicant is an elected member. The proposed studio is modest in size and design, with Swedish redwood shiplap cladding and a predominantly glazed front elevation. The Conservation Officer raised no objection. Councillor Beazley proposed approval, stating that as it was an application by a member, it should be approved, which led to a discussion about the appropriateness of this reasoning. Ultimately, the committee approved the application unanimously, based on officer recommendations.

Delegated Decisions and Appeals

The committee noted the applications determined under delegated powers and the appeal decisions. Notably, an appeal against the refusal of planning permission for six age-restricted dwellings at Land West of Colt House, Aston Road, Bampton, was allowed. An appeal concerning the change of use of The Woodman Inn in North Leigh to a single-family home was also allowed.