Planning in Vale of White Horse

Settlement Hierarchy

Market Towns are defined as settlements that have the ability to support the most sustainable patterns of living within the Vale through their current levels of facilities, services and employment opportunities. Market Towns have the greatest long-term potential for development to provide the jobs and homes to help sustain, and where appropriate, enhance their services and facilities to support viable and sustainable communities in a proportionate manner. Local Service Centres are defined as larger villages or neighbourhoods to larger settlements with a level of facilities and services and local employment to provide the next best opportunities for sustainable development outside the Market Towns. Larger Villages are defined as settlements with a more limited range of employment, services and facilities. Unallocated development will be limited to providing for local needs and to support employment, services and facilities within local communities. Smaller Villages have a low level of services and facilities, where any development should be modest and proportionate in scale and primarily be to meet local needs. The Settlement Classifications are: Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area: Market Town: Abingdon-on-Thames Local Service Centre: Botley Larger Villages: Cumnor, Drayton, East Hanney, Kennington, Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor, Marcham, Radley, Steventon and Wootton Smaller Villages: Appleton, Dry Sandford, Farmoor, Frilford, Longworth, North Hinksey, Shippon, South Hinksey, Sunningwell, West Hanney and Wytham South East Vale Sub-Area: Market Town: Wantage Local Service Centre: Grove Larger Villages: Blewbury, East Hendred, Harwell, Harwell Campus, Sutton Courtenay and Milton Smaller Villages: Appleford, Ardington, Chilton, Milton Heights, Rowstock, Upton and West Hendred Western Vale Sub-Area: Market Town: Faringdon Larger Villages: East Challow, Shrivenham, Stanford-in-the-Vale, Uffington and Watchfield Smaller Villages: Ashbury, Buckland, Childrey, Coleshill, Great Coxwell, Kingston Lisle, Little Coxwell, Littleworth, Longcot, Letcombe Regis and Shellingford Those villages not included within the categories described above are considered to form part of the open countryside.

Design and Local Distinctiveness

All proposals for new development will be required to be of high quality design that: i. responds positively to the site and its surroundings, cultural diversity and history, conserves and enhances historic character and reinforces local identity or establishes a distinct identity whilst not preventing innovative responses to context ii. creates a distinctive sense of place through high quality townscape and landscaping that physically and visually integrates with its surroundings iii. provides a clear and permeable structure of streets, routes and spaces that are legible and easy to navigate through because of the use of street typology, views, landmarks, public art and focal points iv. is well connected to provide safe and convenient ease of movement by all users, ensuring that the needs of vehicular traffic does not dominate at the expense of other modes of transport, including pedestrians and cyclists, or undermine the resulting quality of places v. incorporates and/or links to high quality Green Infrastructure and landscaping to enhance biodiversity and meet recreational needs, including Public Rights of Way vi. is built to last, functions well and is flexible to changing requirements of occupants and other circumstances vii. addresses the needs of all in society by incorporating mixed uses and facilities as appropriate with good access to public transport and a wide range of house types and tenures viii. is visually attractive and the sc

Design Strategies for Strategic and Major Development Sites

Proposals for housing allocations and major development* sites must be accompanied by a site-wide design strategy that includes the following: 1. a Masterplan which should: i. identify the Vision for the development, setting out a clear description of the type of place that could be created whilst building on the overall aims for the district ii. demonstrate a coherent and robust framework for development that clearly sets out: land uses proposed including amount, scale and density, movement and access arrangements and Green Infrastructure provision iii. show how the design requirements of the scheme work within the Vision and demonstrate how the Vision will be achieved iv. integrate with the surrounding built, historic and natural environments, in particular maximising existing and potential movement connections and accessibility to encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport v. provide community facilities and other amenities to meet the needs of all the community, including access to education and training facilities, health care, community leisure and recreation facilities as appropriate vi. define a hierarchy of routes and the integration of suitable infrastructure, including, for example, SUDS within the public realm vii. contain a Green Infrastructure framework to ensure that public and private open space standards are met, relate well to each other and to existing areas and that the new spaces are safe, convenient, accessible and functional, and viii. contain an indicative layout which illustrates a legible urban structure based on strategic urban design principles and identifies key elements of townscape such as main frontages, edges, landmark buildings and key building groups and character areas. 2. an accompanying Design and Access Statement, which should explain: i. the steps taken to appraise the context of the proposed development, and how the design of the development takes that context into account to create or reinforce local distinctiveness to achieve a positive sense of place and identity ii. the design principles and concepts that have been applied to the proposed development and how these principles will be used to inform subsequent phases or development parcels within the overall site iii. the mechanism for delivering the Vision at more detailed stages, for example through design coding iv. how sustainability and environmental matters will be addressed including the efficient use of resources both during construction and when the development is complete v. the delivery phasing and implementation strategies to be in place to ensure the timely delivery of infrastructure and services to the development when they are needed by new residents, and that new developments are built out in a logical manner vi. how the mix of housing types and tenures is integrated and supports a range of household sizes, ages and incomes to meet identified housing need, and vii. how consultation with the existing community has been incorporated.

Sustainable Design and Construction

The Council encourages developers to incorporate climate change adaptation and design measures to combat the effects of changing weather patterns in all new development, which could include: i. planting, shading and advanced glazing systems to reduce solar heat gain during the summer ii. using materials to prevent penetration of heat, including use of cool building materials, green roofs and walls and using flood resilient materials iii. increasing natural ventilation and removing heat by using fresh air iv. orientating windows of habitable rooms within 30 degrees of south and utilising southern slopes v. locating windows at heights that maximise heating from lower sub angles during the winter, and vi. incorporating flood resilient measures such as raising floor levels, electrical fittings and rain-proofing and overhangs to prevent infiltration of heavy rain around doors and windows. A sensitive approach will need to be taken to safeguard the special character of the heritage assets e.g. in a Conservation Area or where historic assets would be affected. The Vale of White Horse is located within an area of water stress and is applying a higher standard for water efficiency. New developments are required to be designed to a water efficiency standard of 110 litres/head/day (l/h/d) for new homes.

Didcot A Power Station

The Council supports the redevelopment of the Didcot A site to provide a high quality mixed-use development. The site will continue to be reserved for a range of uses, particularly employment (B1, B2 and B8). Other acceptable uses for the site include, but are not limited to, residential (C1, C2 and C3), ancillary retail, an element of bulky goods retail, leisure (D2) and community uses. Any proposed uses for the site must have regard to relevant policies contained within South Oxfordshire District Council's Adopted Core Strategy. Proposals for retail development that exceed 500 square metres gross retail floorspace will need to be subject to a retail impact assessment to demonstrate there would be no adverse impacts on the vitality and viability on nearby centres. The mix of these uses will need to reflect demand, suitability of the site and any transport implications to be identified by a detailed transport assessment with appropriate mitigation provided. Any development will need to be appropriate to the site's location adjacent to Didcot B Power Station. These uses need to be carefully considered in the masterplanning process to ensure that the site incorporates the following key design principles: • The creation of a mixed-use local centre forming a high street and active frontages on the main routes through the site; • Strong connectivity with Didcot town centre, Milton Park and Valley Park; • Design across the site must have regard to sensitive views from elevated positions towards (but not limited to) residential amenity space, the treatment of facades and rooftops of prominent buildings, and reducing the visual impact of car parks; • Any residential development (C2 and C3) to be situated towards the south of the site and separate from the movement of heavy goods vehicles along key transport corridors; and • Integrated SUDS and natural landscape features throughout the site. The proposed route of the new Science Bridge and A4130 re-routing is safeguarded. Planning permission will not be granted for development that would prejudice the construction or effective operation of this highway infrastructure in accordance with Core Policy 17.

New Employment Development on Unallocated Sites

Proposals for new employment development (Use Classes B1, B2 or B8) will be supported on unallocated sites in or on the edge of, the built up area of Market Towns, Local Service Centres and Larger and Smaller Villages provided that the benefits are not outweighed by any harmful impacts, taking into account the following: i. the effect on the amenity of nearby residents and occupiers ii. the provision of safe site access for pedestrians and cyclists and for all types of vehicles likely to visit the sites, and measures to promote the use of sustainable modes of transport where possible, and iii. the scale, nature and appearance of the employment development and its relationship with the local townscape and/or landscape character In the rural areas the re-use, conversion or adaptation of suitable existing buildings for employment will also be supported subject to criteria (i)-(iii) where applicable. Other rural proposals will be supported, provided that, in addition to criteria (i)-(iii) where applicable: iv. the proposal cannot reasonably be accommodated on employment land identified as vacant or developable, and v. it can be demonstrated that the proposal will benefit the local economy and will not undermine the delivery of the strategic employment allocations.

Change of Use of Existing Employment Land and Premises

The strategic employment sites, as listed in the Sub-Area Strategies, form part of the District's reserve for employment land to meet objectively assessed employment needs and will be safeguarded for employment uses. Alternative uses will be considered if they provide ancillary supporting services or meet a need identified through the Local Plan 2031 review process, or exceptionally where a reassessment of the district-wide 2013 Employment Land Review demonstrates that these sites are no longer needed over the full plan period. Elsewhere in the District, where there is no reasonable prospect of land or premises being used for continued employment use, a mixed use enabling development which incorporates employment space should first be considered. If a mixed use scheme is not viable, the extent to which the proposed use generates new employment will be considered in determining the relevant planning application. Proposals for alternative uses will need to demonstrate compliance with other relevant policies.

Further and Higher Education

The Council will support the development and enhancement of further and higher education facilities to help support the local economy and to ensure the local labour force is equipped to take advantage of the opportunities likely to arise in the future. The most appropriate locations for further and higher education provision are: i. by the extension or more intensive use of existing education or other suitable community facilities ii. within identified strategic employment locations, provided that the training offered is clearly relevant to meet the needs of businesses in that strategic employment location, and iii. in the main settlements and other locations with good pedestrian and cycle access and well served by public transport connections between the proposed facility and its likely student catchment.

Meeting Business and Employment Needs

218 hectares of land is identified for future employment development on the following strategic sites and saved Vale Local Plan 2011 allocations. Site Name: Milton Park, Sub-Area: South East Vale, Type of Site: Saved Local Plan 2011 allocation, Available Development Land (Hectares): 28 Site Name: Harwell Campus, Type of Site: Saved Local Plan 2011 allocation (Enterprise Zone) 35, (Outwith EZ) 35 Site Name: Monks Farm, North Grove, Sub-Area: New mixed use strategic allocation, Available Development Land (Hectares): 6 Site Name: Didcot A, Type of Site: Identified future potential supply, Available Development Land (Hectares): 29 Site Name: South of Park Road, Faringdon, Sub-Area: Western Vale, Type of Site: New mixed use strategic allocation, Available Development Land (Hectares): 3 Site Name: Other saved Local Plan 2011 allocations, Available Development Land (Hectares): 24.2 Total: 218 Employment and business development as part of mixed-use development will be supported at Monks Farm, Grove and South of Park Road, Faringdon where this meets the requirements set out within the Site Allocations.

Renewable Energy (excluding wind energy)

The Council encourages schemes for renewable and low carbon energy generation. Planning applications for renewable and low carbon energy generation (excluding wind energy) will be supported, provided that they do not cause a significantly adverse effect to: i. landscape, both designated AONB and locally valued ii. biodiversity, including protected habitats and species and Conservation Target Areas iii. the historic environment, both designated and non-designated assets, including by development within their settings iv. the visual amenity and openness of the Green Belt v. local residential amenity, and vi. the safe movement of traffic and pedestrians.

The Oxford Green Belt

The Oxford Green Belt area in the Vale, as amended following the local Green Belt Review, will continue to be protected to maintain its openness and permanence. Development will be permitted in the following settlements, which are inset to the Green Belt (as shown on the Adopted Policies Map), where the proposed development is within the existing built area of the village and in accordance with Core Policies 3 and 4: • Appleton • Botley • Cumnor • Kennington • North Hinksey • Radley, and • Wootton Proposals for inappropriate development will not be approved except in very special circumstances. The construction of new buildings in the Green Belt is considered inappropriate except where they are: i. buildings for agriculture or forestry ii. provision of appropriate facilities for outdoor sport, outdoor recreation and for cemeteries, as long as it preserves the openness of the Green Belt and does not conflict with the purposes of including land within it iii. the extension or alteration of a building provided it does not result in disproportionate additions over and above the size of the original building iv. the replacement of a building, provided the new building is in the same use and not materially larger than the one it replaces v. limited infilling in Shippon, South Hinksey, Wootton Old Village and Wytham vi. limited affordable housing for local community needs as set out in Core Policy 24, or vii. limited infilling or the partial or complete redevelopment of previously developed sites, whether redundant or in continuing use (excluding temporary buildings), which would not have a greater impact on the openness of the Green Belt and the purpose of including land within it than the existing development. The following forms of development are also not inappropriate in the Green Belt provided they preserve the openness of the Green Belt and do not conflict with the purposes of including land in the Green Belt: • mineral extraction • engineering operations • local transport infrastructure that can demonstrate a requirement for a Green Belt location • the re-use of buildings, provided that they are permanent and of substantial construction, and • development brought forward under a Community Right to Build Order.

Flood Risk

The risk and impact of flooding will be minimised through: i. directing new development to areas with the lowest probability of flooding ii. ensuring that all new development addresses the effective management of all sources of flood risk iii. ensuring that development does not increase the risk of flooding elsewhere, and iv. ensuring wider environmental benefits of development in relation to flood risk. The suitability of development proposed in flood zones will be strictly assessed using the Sequential Test, and, where necessary, the Exceptions Test. A sequential approach should be used at site level. A site-specific flood risk assessment will be required for all developments of 1 hectare and greater in Flood Zone 1 and, for all proposals for new development, including minor development and change of use in Flood Zone 2 and 3 and, in Critical Drainage Areas, and also where proposed development or a change of use to a more vulnerable class that may be subject to other forms of flooding. Appropriate mitigation and management measures will be required to be implemented. All development proposals must be assessed against the Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire Strategic Flood Risk Assessment and the Oxfordshire Local Flood Risk Management Strategy to address locally significant flooding. Appropriate mitigation and management measures must be implemented. All development will be required to provide a drainage strategy. Developments will be expected to incorporate sustainable drainage systems and ensure that run-off rates are attenuated to greenfield run-off rates. Higher rates would need to be justified and the risks quantified. Developers should strive to reduce run-off rates for existing developed sites. Sustainable drainage systems should seek to enhance water quality and biodiversity in line with the Water Framework Directive (WFD).

Natural Resources

The Council encourages developers to make provision for the effective use of natural resources where applicable, including: i. minimising waste and making adequate provision for the recycling of waste on site ii. using recycled and energy efficient materials iii. maximising passive solar heating, lighting, natural ventilation, energy and water efficiency and re-use of materials iv. making efficient use of water, for example through rainwater harvesting and grey water v. causing no deterioration in, and where possible, achieving improvements in water quality vi. takes account of, and if located within an AQMA, is consistent with, the Council's Air Quality Action Plan vii. ensuring that the land is of a suitable quality for development and that remediation of contaminated land is undertaken where necessary viii. avoiding the development of the best and most versatile agricultural land, unless it is demonstrated to be the most sustainable choice from reasonable alternatives, by first using areas of poorer quality land in preference to that of a higher quality, and ix. re-using previously developed land, provided it is not of high environmental value.

Landscape

The key features that contribute to the nature and quality of the Vale of White Horse District's landscape will be protected from harmful development and where possible enhanced, in particular: i. features such as trees, hedgerows, woodland, field boundaries, watercourses and water bodies ii. important landscape settings of settlements iii. topographical features iv. areas or features of cultural and historic value v. important views and visually sensitive skylines, and vi. tranquillity and the need to protect against intrusion from light pollution, noise, and motion. Where development is acceptable in principle, measures will be sought to integrate it into the landscape character and/or the townscape of the area. Proposals will need to demonstrate how they have responded to the above aspects of landscape character and will be expected to: vii. incorporate appropriate landscape proposals that reflect the character of the area through appropriate design and management; viii. preserve and promote local distinctiveness and diversity and, where practical, enhance damaged landscape areas. High priority will be given to conservation and enhancement of the natural beauty of the North Wessex Downs AONB and planning decisions will have regard to its setting. Proposals that support the economy and social wellbeing of communities located in the AONB, including affordable housing schemes, will be encouraged, provided they do not conflict with the aims of conservation and enhancement.

Green Infrastructure

A net gain in Green Infrastructure, including biodiversity, will be sought either through on-site provision or off-site contributions and the targeted use of other funding sources. A net loss of Green Infrastructure, including biodiversity, through development proposals, will be resisted. Proposals for new development must provide adequate Green Infrastructure in line with the Green Infrastructure Strategy. All major applications must be accompanied by a statement demonstrating that they have taken into account the relationship of the proposed development to existing Green Infrastructure and how this will be retained and enhanced. Proposals will be required to contribute to the delivery of new Green Infrastructure and/or the improvement of existing assets including Conservation Target Areas in accordance with the standards in the Green Infrastructure Strategy and the Habitats Regulations Assessment.

Conservation and Improvement of Biodiversity

Development that will conserve, restore and enhance biodiversity in the district will be permitted. Opportunities for biodiversity gain, including the connection of sites, large-scale habitat restoration, enhancement and habitat re-creation will be actively sought, with a primary focus on delivery in the Conservation Target Areas. A net loss of biodiversity will be avoided. The highest level of protection will be given to sites and species of international nature conservation importance (Special Areas of Conservation and European Protected Species). Development that is likely to result in a significant effect, either alone or in combination, on such sites and species will need to satisfy the requirements of the Habitat Regulations*. Development likely to result in the loss, deterioration or harm to habitats or species of importance to biodiversity or of importance for geological conservation interests, either directly or indirectly, will not be permitted unless: i. the need for, and benefits of, the development in the proposed location outweighs the adverse effect on the relevant biodiversity interest; ii. it can be demonstrated that it could not reasonably be located on an alternative site that would result in less or no harm to the biodiversity interests; and iii. measures can be provided (and are secured through planning conditions or legal agreements), that would avoid, mitigate against or, as a last resort, compensate for, the adverse effects likely to result from development. The habitats and species of importance to biodiversity and sites of geological interest considered in relation to points i) to iii) comprise: • Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) • Local Wildlife Sites • Local Nature Reserves • Priority Habitats and species listed in the national and local Biodiversity Action Plan • Ancient Woodland and veteran trees • Legally Protected Species • Locally Important Geological Sites The level of protection and mitigation should be proportionate to the status of the habitat or species and its importance individually and as part of a wider network. It is recognised that habitats/areas not considered above (i.e. Nationally or Locally designated and not priority habitats) can still have a significant biodiversity value within their local context, particularly where they are situated within a Conservation Target Area and/or they have good potential to be restored to priority habitat status or form/have good potential to form links between priority habitats or act as corridors for priority species. These habitats will be given due weight in the consideration of planning applications. If significant harm to these sites cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts) it will be expected that mitigation will be provided to avoid a net loss in biodiversity or, as a last resort, compensation will be required to offset the impacts and achieve a net gain in biodiversity.

The Historic Environment

The Council will work with landowners, developers, the community, Historic England and other stakeholders to: i. ensure that new development conserves, and where possible enhances, designated heritage assets and non-designated heritage assets and their setting in accordance with national guidance and legislation ii. ensure that vacant historic buildings are appropriately re-used as soon as possible to prevent deterioration of condition iii. seek to reduce the number of buildings on the "Heritage at Risk" Register iv. encourage better understanding of the significance of scheduled monuments on the "Heritage at Risk" Register and to aid in their protection v. better understand the significance of Conservation Areas in the district through producing Conservation Area Character Appraisals and Management Plans vi. identify criteria for assessing non designated heritage assets and maintaining a list of such assets as Locally Listed Buildings, and vii. encourage Heritage Partnership Agreements, particularly for Listed Buildings on any 'at risk' register.

Spatial Strategy for South East Vale Sub-Area

At least 12,450 new homes will be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 9,055 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations. 416 dwellings remain to be identified and will be allocated through the Local Plan 2031 Part 2 or Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management Process. Part 1 Allocations: Settlement/Parish: Wantage, Settlement Type: Market Town, Site Name: Crab Hill (North East Wantage and South East Grove), Number of Dwellings: 1,500 Settlement/Parish: Grove, Settlement Type: Local Service Centre, Site Name: Monks Farm (North Grove), Number of Dwellings: 885 Settlement/Parish: Grove, Settlement Type: Local Service Centre, Site Name: Grove Airfield, Number of Dwellings: 2,500 Settlement/Parish: Harwell and Milton parishes, east of the A34 adjoining Didcot town, Settlement Type: Adjoining Didcot Town, Site Name: Valley Park, Number of Dwellings: 2,550 Settlement/Parish: Harwell and Milton parishes, east of the A34 adjoining Didcot town, Settlement Type: Adjoining Didcot Town, Site Name: North West Valley Park, Number of Dwellings: 800 Settlement/Parish: Milton parish west of the A34, Settlement Type: Larger Village, Site Name: Milton Heights (Smaller Village), Number of Dwellings: 400 Settlement/Parish: Harwell, Settlement Type: Larger Village, Site Name: West of Harwell, Number of Dwellings: 200 Settlement/Parish: Sutton Courtenay, Settlement Type: Larger Village, Site Name: East of Sutton Courtenay, Number of Dwellings: 220 Total: 9,055 11,850 new homes are 'ring-fenced' for the purposes of the assessment of housing land supply within this Sub-Area in accordance with Core Policy 5. Development will be supported at the strategic site allocations through a masterplanning process involving the community, local planning authority, developer and other stakeholders where development meets the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown by Appendix A and are in accordance with the Development Plan taken as a whole. Development in the South East Vale Area should be in accordance with the Settlement Hierarchy set out in Core Policy 3: Market Town: Wantage Local Service Centre: Grove Larger Villages: Blewbury, East Hendred, Harwell, Harwell Campus, Milton and Sutton Courtenay Smaller Villages: Appleford, Ardington, Chilton, Milton Heights, Rowstock, Upton and West Hendred 208 hectares of employment land will be provided for business and employment growth in accordance with Core Policy 6. In addition, the following strategic employment sites will be safeguarded for employment use in line with Core Policy 29: Strategic employment sites: Grove Technology Park, Grove Road Wantage, Downsview Road Grove, Station Road Grove, Existing Business Premises around Didcot Power Station (not including vacant surplus land), Milton Park Site, Harwell Campus

Cooperation on Unmet Housing Need for Oxfordshire

The Council will continue to work under the 'duty-to-cooperate' with all other Oxfordshire local authorities on an ongoing basis to address the objectively assessed need for housing across the Oxfordshire housing market area. As a first step, Vale of White Horse District Council has sought to accommodate the housing need for Vale of White Horse District in full in the Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031 Part 1. The Council recognises that Oxford City is unlikely to be able to accommodate the whole of its new housing requirement for the 2011-2031 period within its administrative boundary. In tandem, the Council will continue to work jointly and proactively with all of the other Oxfordshire local authorities and through the Oxfordshire Growth Board to address any unmet housing need. This will include assessing all reasonable spatial options, including the release of brownfield, the potential for new settlements and a full strategic review of the boundaries of the Oxford Green Belt. These issues are not for the Council to consider in isolation. To ensure Oxford's unmet need is addressed, the Council will allocate sites to contribute towards Oxford's unmet housing need within the Local Plan 2031: Part 2, to be submitted to the Secretary of State, within two years of adoption of the Local Plan 2031: Part 1. This will ensure that unmet need is considered and planned for in a timely manner and is tested through a robust plan-making process in accordance with national policy, national guidance, the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations, and the Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA). Whilst the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 is in preparation, the Council's housing requirement will be 20,560. However, if the Part 2 plan is not adopted within two years of the adoption of Local Plan 2031: Part 1, then from that time until the adoption of the Part 2 plan, the Council's housing requirement will be 20,560 plus the agreed quantum of Oxford's unmet housing need to be addressed within the Vale of White Horse District.

Spatial Strategy for Western Vale Sub-Area

Our overarching priority for this Sub-Area is to protect the service centre role of Faringdon and deliver a balance of housing and employment to improve the self-sufficiency of the area and to protect the vitality and viability of our rural communities. Development in the Western Vale Sub-Area should be in accordance with the Settlement Hierarchy set out in Core Policy 3: Western Vale Sub-Area Market Town: Faringdon Larger Villages: East Challow, Shrivenham, Stanford-in-the-Vale, Uffington and Watchfield Smaller Villages: Ashbury, Buckland, Childrey, Coleshill, Great Coxwell, Kingston Lisle, Little Coxwell, Littleworth, Longcot, Letcombe Regis and Shellingford Housing Delivery At least 3,173 new homes will be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 1,650 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations. 462 dwellings remain to be identified and will be allocated through the Local Plan 2031 Part 2 or Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management process. The contribution of all sources of housing supply within this Sub-Area are shown by the following table: Category Number of Dwellings Housing requirement for the full plan period (Apr 2011 to Mar 2031) 3,173a Housing Completions (Apr 2011 to Mar 2016) 860 Housing Supply (Apr 2016 to Mar 2031) Known Commitments 732 Local Plan 2031 Part 1 allocations 1,650 Local Plan 2031 Part 2 allocations 222 b Windfalls 240 a This target addresses needs arising in the Vale of White Horse. If or when required, needs arising elsewhere in the Housing Market Area, will be addressed in accordance with Core Policy 2. b The Local Plan Part 2 allocation will be reduced where dwellings are allocated in Neighbourhood Developments Plans or come forward through the Development Management Process. Strategic Allocations Development will be supported at the strategic allocations through a masterplanning process involving the community, local planning authority, developer and other stakeholders where development meets the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown by Appendix A and are in accordance with the Development Plan taken as a whole.

Housing Mix

A mix of dwelling types and sizes to meet the needs of current and future households will be required on all new residential developments. This should be in accordance with the Council's current Strategic Housing Market Assessment unless an alternative approach can be demonstrated to be more appropriate through the Housing Register or where proven to be necessary due to viability constraints*. *Viability should be set out in an independent viability assessment on terms agreed by the relevant parties including the Council and funded by the developer. This will involve an open book approach.

Housing Density

On all new housing developments a minimum density of 30 dwellings per hectare (net) will be required unless specific local circumstances indicate that this would have an adverse effect on the character of the area, highway safety or the amenity of neighbours. Higher densities will be encouraged in locations where it will result in the optimum use of land, where there is good access to services and public transport routes, and where it would contribute to enhancing the character and legibility of a place.

Affordable Housing

The Council will seek 35 % affordable housing on all sites capable of a net gain of eleven or more dwellings. There should be a 75:25 split for rented (either social or affordable) and intermediate housing respectively. In circumstances where it can be demonstrated that the level of affordable housing being sought would be unviable, alternative tenure mixes and levels of affordable housing provision, may be considered. Any difference in tenure mix or percentage of affordable housing to be delivered will need to be supported by a viability assessment*. Any affordable housing provided should: i. be of a size and type which meets the requirements of those in housing need, and ii. be indistinguishable in appearance from the market housing on site and distributed evenly across the site The Council's preference is for on-site affordable housing provision (with the exception of part units). Only in exceptional circumstances will any other scenario be considered. In such cases the following delivery hierarchy will be considered: iii. mix of on-and off-site delivery with the level of affordable housing to be achieved to be 'broadly equivalent' to that which would have been delivered on-site iv. full off-site delivery v. part off-site delivery and part commuted sum vi. commuted sum which shall be based on the open market value of units to be delivered on site in lieu of full-on or off-site delivery In cases where the 35 % calculation provides a part unit, a financial contribution will be sought, equivalent to that part unit. Off-site contributions and/or financial contributions for the provision of affordable housing in lieu of on-site provision will not be appropriate, unless it can be robustly justified that: vii. it is not physically possible or feasible to provide affordable housing on the application site, or viii. there is evidence that a separate site would more satisfactorily meet local housing need and contribute to the creation of sustainable mixed communities. Planning permission will be refused for development proposals where it appears that a larger site has been sub-divided into smaller development parcels in order to avoid the requirements of the affordable housing policy. *Viability should be set out in an independent viability assessment on terms agreed by the relevant parties including the Council and funded by the developer. This will involve an open book approach.

Rural Exception Sites

Affordable housing schemes will be permitted on sites that would not otherwise be acceptable for housing development, providing the scheme would satisfy the following: i. it meets a clearly established local need identified through a robust housing needs assessment in accordance with a methodology agreed with the District Council ii. it is designed to meet the established need of a village (or its neighbouring village) in terms of dwelling numbers, types, sizes and affordability iii. it includes secure arrangements to ensure that all the houses will be occupied by local people in need of affordable housing and that the benefits of the low cost provision will remain available to local people in the long term iv. it is located within or on the edge of a village and would not harm the character, visual amenity or setting of settlements, particularly in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The design, layout and materials of new housing complements and enhances its surrounding natural and built environment v. is consistent with Green Belt policy as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework and Core Policy 13 vi. it will not adversely impact upon designated heritage assets or their setting (i.e. Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, Registered Parks and Gardens, Scheduled Monuments, and non-designated Heritage Assets) vii. it is located in a sustainable location with good access to public transport, employment and local services/facilities, and viii. is consistent with Core Policy 42: Flood Risk. Where robust evidence establishes that viability issues* would prevent the delivery of an exception site, the minimum level of market housing required to make the development viable will be favourably considered where it would ensure the provision of significant additional affordable housing to meet local needs. Any market housing included in a scheme (where considered necessary for reasons of viability) should be constructed to reflect the character of the affordable units and be sympathetic to the rural location. *Viability should be set out in an independent viability assessment on terms agreed by the relevant parties including the Council and funded by the developer. This will involve an open book approach.

Accommodating Current and Future Needs of the Ageing Population

In order to meet the needs of current and future households in the context of an ageing population, the following requirements will be sought subject to the viability of provision on each site: i. residential dwelling houses designed for older people (with or without Extra Care) should be provided in the strategic site allocations in the Local Plan 2031 Part 1 and other suitable locations. ii. where possible, residential dwellings designed for older people should be located within close proximity to public transport routes, retail and other local facilities, including for health care. iii. where residential dwelling houses for older people (with or without Extra Care) are provided, wherever possible it should be on a mixed-tenure basis in accordance with the requirements of Core Policy 24: Affordable Housing. iv. where standards that would apply to general housing have been relaxed in response to the special needs of the occupiers of the scheme, the occupancy will be limited to accord with the nature of the scheme.

Meeting the housing needs of Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Show People

The Council will enable or provide for at least 13 pitches for gypsies and travellers during the plan period to 2031. Existing sites will be safeguarded. The identified need will be met by a combination of the following: i. implementation of extant planning permissions ii. extending existing sites where possible to meet the needs of existing residents and their families iii. allocating specific deliverable sites through Local Plan 2031 Part 2 to meet any remaining identified need. Proposals to meet the identified need will be permitted where it has been demonstrated that the following criteria have been met: iv. the site is not located within the Oxford Green Belt v. the development will not harm the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, areas of high landscape or ecological value, or heritage assets and their setting vi. the development will not have an adverse impact on the character of the area, highway safety or the amenities of neighbouring properties vii. the site is located within a reasonable walking distance of key local services including a primary school, a local shop and a public transport service viii. the site can be provided with safe vehicular and pedestrian access, electricity, mains drinking water, sewage connections and waste disposal facilities.

Meeting Our Housing Needs

The housing target for the Vale of White Horse District is for at least 20,560 homes to be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 12,495 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations. 1,840 dwellings remain to be identified and will be allocated through the Local Plan 2031 Part 2 or Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management process. Strategic Allocations Development will be supported at strategic site allocations where it meets the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown by Appendix A and in accordance with the policies of the Development Plan taken as a whole. Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area: Abingdon-on-Thames (Market Town): North of Abingdon-on-Thames (800 dwellings), North-West of Abingdon-on-Thames (200 dwellings) Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor (Larger Village): East of Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor (280 dwellings) Radley (Larger Village): North-West of Radley (240 dwellings), South of Kennington (270 dwellings) Sub total: 1,790 dwellings South East Vale Sub-Area: Wantage (Market Town): Crab Hill - North East Wantage and South East Grove (1,500 dwellings) Grove (Local Service Centre): Grove Airfield (2,500 dwellings), Monks Farm - North Grove (885 dwellings) Harwell and Milton Parishes east of the A34 adjoining Didcot Town: Valley Park (2,550 dwellings), North-West of Valley Park (800 dwellings) Harwell (Larger Village): West of Harwell (200 dwellings) Milton Parish west of the A34 - Milton Heights (Smaller Village): (400 dwellings) Sutton Courtenay (Larger Village): East of Sutton Courtenay (220 dwellings) Sub total: 9,055 dwellings Western Vale Sub-Area: Faringdon (Market Town): Land South of Park Road, Faringdon (350 dwellings), South-West of Faringdon (200 dwellings) Great Coxwell Parish adjoining Faringdon Market Town: East of Coxwell Road Faringdon (200 dwellings), South of Faringdon (200 dwellings) Shrivenham (Larger Village): North of Shrivenham (500 dwellings) Stanford-in-the-Vale (Larger Village): West of Stanford-in-the-Vale (200 dwellings) Sub total: 1,650 dwellings Development at Market Towns, Local Service Centres and Larger Villages There is a presumption in favour of sustainable development within the existing built area of Market Towns, Local Service Centres and Larger Villages in accordance with Core Policy 1. Development outside of the existing built area of these settlements will be permitted where it is allocated by the Local Plan 2031 Part 1 or has been allocated within an adopted Neighbourhood Development Plan or future parts of the Local Plan 2031. This development must be adjacent,

Housing Supply Ring-Fence

The Council will employ a ring-fence approach to housing delivery in the Science Vale area as shown by Figure 4.3 and set out on the Adopted Policies Map. For the purposes of the assessment of housing land supply, the ring-fence area will be treated as a separate sub-area with a housing requirement of 11,850 homes in the plan period (593 homes per annum) in support of the 15,850 jobs planned in this sub-area and as a contribution towards the district's housing need set out in Core Policy 4. The supply calculations for the ring-fence area and the rest of district area will be combined to provide a district wide calculation. Any proposals for development within the ring fence area, whether a five year housing supply is in place or not, will still need to demonstrate conformity with relevant national and local policy.

Spatial Strategy for Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area

Our over-arching priority for this Sub-Area is to maintain the service and employment centre roles for Abingdon-on-Thames and Botley and ensure growth is managed to minimise pressure on the highway network, whilst protecting the Oxford Green Belt. Development in the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area should be in accordance with the Settlement Hierarchy set out in Core Policy 3: Market Town: Abingdon-on-Thames Local Service Centre: Botley Larger Villages: Cumnor, Drayton, East Hanney, Kennington, Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor, Marcham, Radley, Steventon and Wootton Smaller Villages: Appleton, Dry Sandford, Farmoor, Frilford, Longworth, North Hinksey, Shippon, South Hinksey, Sunningwell, West Hanney and Wytham Housing Delivery At least 5,438 new homes will be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 1,790 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations. 962 dwellings remain to be identified and will be allocated through the Local Plan 2031 Part 2 or Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management process. Employment 3.20 hectares of employment land is identified for future business and employment growth in accordance with Core Policy 6. In addition, the following strategic employment sites will be safeguarded for employment use in line with Core Policy 29. Strategic employment sites: Abingdon-on-Thames: Ashville Trading Estate, Abingdon Business Park, Nuffield Way, Drayton Road Industrial Estate, Fitzharris Trading Estate, Abingdon Science Park, Radley Road Industrial Estate, Barton Mill in Audlett Drive. Botley: Curtis Industrial Estate, Hinksley Business Centre, Minns Business Park, Seacourt Tower. Strategic Allocations Development will be supported at the strategic site allocations through a masterplanning process involving the community, local planning authority, developer and other stakeholders where development meets the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown by Appendix A and are in accordance with the Development Plan taken as a whole.

Strategic Water Storage Reservoirs

Land is safeguarded for a reservoir and ancillary works between the settlements of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon, and to the north of Longworth unless subsequent publication of Thames Water's Resources Management Plan 2019 indicates that the location is not necessary for future reservoir provision. Development that might prejudice the implementation of a new reservoir on the safeguarded sites will be refused. The safeguarded areas for the reservoirs are shown on the Adopted Policies Map and Appendix F. The proposed reservoir/s, if included as a preferred option in an adopted Water Resources Management Plan, must be brought forward through a masterplan, development brief and design statement following consultation on these documents by Thames Water with the community, the local authority, the local highway authority and the statutory environmental bodies and utility providers. Any proposal for a reservoir must: i. mitigate the impact of construction on local people, the environment and roads ii. minimise the effects on the landscape of an embankment reservoir through its design, general configuration and the use of hard and soft landscaping iii. maximise the creation of wildlife habitats and biodiversity iv. promote the recreational uses of the reservoir consistent with the landscape and biodiversity values of the proposal and having regard to the traffic impacts of such uses v. include a new route for the diverted Hanney to Steventon road, to include provision for an off-road cycle path in relation to the reservoir proposal between the villages of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon vi. make provision for the new route of the Wilts and Berks Canal in relation to the reservoir proposal between the villages of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon vii. include measures to avoid or mitigate any other significant adverse effects identified through the environmental impact assessment of the proposal, including on the local and wider highway networks and on surface water and fluvial flooding, and viii. minimise any impact on the archaeological significance of the site, to include the retention of in situ archaeological remains, where possible, and their full investigation and recording with the results deposited in a public archive.

Electronic communications

The Council will work with Oxfordshire County Council and others to promote faster, more reliable and more comprehensive coverage of electronic communications and allow businesses and residents to access services and information more effectively, thereby helping to reduce the need to travel. Proposals for all new development should ensure appropriate infrastructure is provided during development, sufficient to enable all properties to be connected to superfast broadband without any post-development works.

Delivery and Contingency

If the Local Plan 2031 policies are not delivered in accordance with the Monitoring Framework set out in Appendix H, the contingency measures identified in the monitoring framework will apply. If the Authority's Monitoring Report shows that implementation of the plan, either in part or as a whole, is not taking place as envisaged, the Council, in conjunction with its partners, will investigate the reasons for the situation and will implement appropriate action which may include one or more of the following: i. seeking alternative sources of funding if a lack of infrastructure is delaying development or causing significant problems as a result of new development; ii. seeking to accelerate delivery on other permitted or allocated sites; iii. identifying alternative deliverable sites that are in general accordance with the Spatial Strategy of the plan through the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 or other appropriate mechanism; iv. undertaking a partial or full review of the Local Plan, if investigation indicates that its strategy, either in whole or in part, is no longer appropriate.

Providing Supporting Infrastructure and Services

All new development will be required to provide for the necessary on-site and, where appropriate, off-site infrastructure requirements arising from the proposal. Infrastructure requirements will be delivered directly by the developer and/or through an appropriate financial contribution prior to, or in conjunction with, new development. Where appropriate, developers will be expected to collaborate on the provision of infrastructure which is needed to serve more than one site. In ensuring the timely delivery of infrastructure requirements, development proposals must demonstrate that full regard has been paid to the Infrastructure Delivery Plan and all other relevant policies of this plan. If infrastructure requirements could render the development unviable, proposals for major development should be supported by an independent viability assessment on terms agreed by the relevant parties including the Council and County Council, and funded by the developer. This will involve an open book approach. Where viability constraints are demonstrated by evidence, the Council will: i. prioritise developer contributions for essential and then other infrastructure in line with the definitions as set out in paragraph 4.42 and the detail of requirements outlined in the IDP, and/or ii. use an appropriate mechanism to defer part of the developer contributions requirement to a later date, or iii. as a last resort, refuse planning permission if the development would be unsustainable without inclusion of the unfunded infrastructure requirements taking into account reasonable contributions from elsewhere including CIL The Council's Delivering Infrastructure Strategy will include both a CIL Charging Schedule and a Supplementary Planning Document for Section 106 and Section 278 legal agreements that will provide more detail about its approach to securing developer contributions. Upon adoption of the CIL Charging Schedule, CIL will be used to pool developer contributions towards a wide range of new and improved infrastructure necessary to deliver new development. Where not covered by the CIL Charging Schedule, infrastructure and services, including provision for their maintenance, should be delivered directly by the developer through the development management process and in accordance with the Regulation 122 Tests*. Infrastructure and services will be sought through the negotiation of planning obligations, conditions, levy, undertaking and/or other agreement as secured through the planning permission, to mitigate the direct impacts of development and secure its implementation.

Harcourt Hill Campus

The Council will work proactively with Oxford Brookes University, Oxfordshire County Council, local residents and other appropriate stakeholders to help the university to develop a masterplan for the Harcourt Hill Campus site that meets the university's longer term business needs for predominantly educational uses and in a manner that respects its Green Belt setting and urban-rural fringe context. Proposals for the upgrading or redevelopment of the Harcourt Hill Campus will be supported in principle where guided by an agreed masterplan that sets a clear vision for the future use of the site. The agreed masterplan and any subsequent proposals should be prepared to clearly identify and address key site issues including, but not limited to, the following matters: i. the scale of development proposed and intended uses ii. the integration of built form into the landscape which will be assessed at the planning application stage with reference to a comprehensive landscape, tree and planting strategy iii. sustainable site access including by public transport, and the effective management of car trips and car parking demand to a level that can safely be accommodated on the local road network, and iv. the safeguarding of long distance views of the site from Oxford and to ensure that new development does not detract from views of the existing spires by reason of its height or form.

Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development

Planning applications that accord with this Local Plan 2031 (and where relevant, with any subsequent Development Plan Documents or Neighbourhood Plans) will be approved, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Where there are no policies relevant to the application or relevant policies are out of date at the time of making the decision then the Council will grant planning permission unless material considerations indicate otherwise, and unless: i. any adverse impacts of granting planning permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the National Planning Policy Framework taken as a whole, or ii. specific policies in the Framework indicate that development should be restricted.

Abbey Shopping Centre and the Charter, Abingdon-on-Thames

Within the Abbey Shopping Centre and the Charter Area (as defined on the Adopted Policies Map), proposals for retail-led development will be supported. Applicants will need to demonstrate that proposals reflect the planning and urban design guidance set out in the adopted Supplementary Planning Document for the area to deliver high quality retail-led development, which successfully complements and integrates with the existing Phase 1 Abbey Shopping Centre. Proposals should ensure that the retail element (A1 use) of the Charter is maximised to ensure the vitality and viability of the town centre is maintained and enhanced over the plan period. Proposals should demonstrate how they will mitigate their transport impact, including improving facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

Botley Central Area

Proposals for a comprehensive retail-led redevelopment and upgrading of Botley central area, as defined on the Adopted Policies Map, will be supported provided that: i. taken as a whole, the proposals support the role and function of Botley as a Local Service Centre, providing a well-integrated mix of shops and services to meet day-to-day shopping needs of the local area ii. effective use is made of development potential above ground level and on more peripheral parts of the site for a mix of uses that may include, but are not limited to, office, community, residential, hotel and leisure activities iii. existing residential and community facilities, including: the community hall, library, Church of St Peter and St Paul and Baptist Church are replaced with facilities of an appropriate size and quality to meet current and likely future local needs iv. it can be demonstrated that proposals will not harm the character or appearance of the local area, particularly West Way, Arthray Road and Westminster Way v. proposals for the site are prepared through a comprehensive masterplanning process providing an integrated solution to site access, traffic management, air quality management, servicing and sufficient car parking, whilst prioritising the pedestrian customer environment, and vi. proposals that seek to demolish Elms Parade should demonstrate that its successor is of at least equal architectural merit and particular attention should be given to provide at least the same level of active frontage.

Development to Support the Visitor Economy

The Council encourages new development to advance the visitor economy for leisure and business purposes. Proposals will be supported as follows: i. within the built-up areas of the Market Towns and Local Service Centres - larger scale developments including conference facilities, museums, heritage centres, hotels, guest houses and associated facilities for visitors ii. within the built-up areas of the Larger and Smaller Villages - smaller and proportionately scaled developments that are in keeping with the character of the settlement, including museums, heritage centres, hotels, guest houses, self-catering accommodation and associated facilities for visitors iii. at Milton Park and Harwell Campus - ancillary business hotel and conference facilities, and iv. at service areas on the main transport corridors - hotel accommodation. Outside the above locations, small-scale development to support the visitor economy, including farm diversification and equine development, will be supported provided that proposals are in keeping with the scale and character of the locality and which would not adversely affect heritage assets or their setting. Larger developments will only be supported in exceptional circumstances, for example to sensitively re-use a historic building, or to proportionally support or enhance enjoyment of a significant and established visitor attraction where this cannot reasonably be achieved from a town or village location.

Retail Development and other Main Town Centre Uses

The Market Towns and Local Service Centres defined in the Settlement Hierarchy (Core Policy 3) are the preferred locations for larger scale development or redevelopment for retailing and other main town centre uses. For new retail proposals (Use Class A), first consideration should be given to areas designated as primary and secondary shopping frontages and the redevelopment sites at the Charter area of Abingdon-on-Thames and the Botley Central Area. For other town centre uses, first consideration should be given to opportunities within the designated town centre areas that are well linked to the retail core by foot, including identified redevelopment sites, before more peripheral locations are considered. Proposals for new retail development or changes of use to retail or other main town centre uses will be supported elsewhere as follows: i. for development primarily intended to serve the day-to-day needs of the local community, within the Larger and Smaller Villages, and in the local shopping centres located within Abingdon-on-Thames, Faringdon, Grove and Wantage ii. ancillary and proportionate food, drink and convenience retailing within and primarily servicing the users of designated employment areas, and iii. offices in employment locations where office use is identified elsewhere in this plan to be appropriate. Proposals for retail or other main town centre uses that are on the edge of or outside the town or local shopping centres, and are not supported by Local Plan policies, will only be supported if it is demonstrated that the proposal satisfies the sequential approach to site selection, and, where the proposal exceeds the local floorspace thresholds set out below, an impact assessment confirms that there are no likely significant adverse impacts on the vitality and viability of nearby centres. The impact assessment methodology and assumptions are to be agreed with the Council in advance. The local floorspace thresholds for impact assessment are as follows: iv. 1,000 square metres gross retail floorspace for development likely to have an impact on Abingdon-on-Thames or Wantage town centres, and v. 500 square metres gross retail floorspace elsewhere in the district.

Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway Improvements within the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area

Land is safeguarded to support the delivery of the following identified transport schemes: • South Abingdon-on-Thames Bypass linking the A415 to the West and South East of the town, including a new River Thames crossing • Diamond Interchange at the A34 Lodge Hill Junction • Land for improvements to Frilford Lights. New development in these areas should be carefully designed having regard to matters such as building layout, noise insulation, landscaping and means of access. Any proposals for development that may reasonably be considered to impact the delivery of the identified schemes (as shown by maps in Appendix E and the Adopted Policies Map) should demonstrate the proposal would not harm their delivery. Planning permission will not be granted for development that would prejudice the construction or effective operation of the transport schemes listed above.

Delivery of Strategic Highway Improvements within the South-East Vale Sub-Area

In order to deliver the growth in the South East Vale Sub-Area and the wider Science Vale area, the Science Vale Area Strategy has identified highways infrastructure to mitigate the impact of the planned growth across Science Vale and secure the future economic viability of the area. The package will be further refined through development of the Local Transport Plan 4 being developed by Oxfordshire County Council, and the Local Plan 2031 Part 2. All development within the South East Vale Sub-Area will be required to contribute in accordance with Core Policy 7: Providing Supporting Infrastructure and Services. Within the South East Vale Sub-Area this will include contributions towards the infrastructure identified within the Science Vale Area Strategy: • Science Bridge and A4130 re-routing through the Didcot A site • A4130 dualling between Milton Interchange and Science Bridge • a new Harwell Link Road between the B4493 and A417 and Southern Didcot Spine Road • a new strategic road connection between the A415 east of Abingdon-on-Thames and the A4130 north of Didcot, including a new crossing of the River Thames • route improvements to the A417 between Wantage and Blewbury • improvement of the strategic cycle network • improvement to the bus network, particularly between the strategic housing and employment growth, including a priority bus system between Harwell Campus and Didcot • a West Wantage Relief Road • access to the strategic road network, for example, improvements to the A34 at the Milton and Chilton junctions • Backhill Lane tunnel (pedestrian and cycle link) and junction on the A4130 • a new link road at north east Wantage between the A338 and A417 (known as the Wantage Eastern Link Road) • relief to the road network at Rowstock and Harwell (including an improved junction configuration at Steventon Lights, upgrading Featherbed Lane and Hagbourne Hill)

Safeguarding of Land for Transport Schemes in the South East Vale Sub-Area

Land is safeguarded to support the delivery of the identified transport schemes listed by Core Policies 17 and 19. Any proposals for development that may reasonably be considered to impact the delivery of the identified transport schemes (as shown by the maps in Appendix E and the Adopted Policies Map) should demonstrate the proposal would not harm their delivery. Planning permission will not be granted for development that would prejudice the construction or effective operation of the transport schemes listed. New development in these areas should be carefully designed having regard to matters such as building layout, noise insulation, landscaping, the historic environment and means of access. Where appropriate, further detail for these schemes will be set out in Local Plan 2031 Part 2.

Re-opening of Grove Railway Station

The Council will continue to support the re-opening of the railway station at Grove, ideally within the lifetime of this plan, and will work with rail operators, Oxfordshire County Council and other partners to develop and implement a strategy to re-open the station and ensure opportunities to do so are maximised. Planning permission will not be granted for development that would prejudice the construction or effective operation of the re-opening of Grove Railway Station in accordance with Core Policy 18.

Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway Improvements within the Western Vale Sub-Area

Land is safeguarded to support the delivery of the following identified transport schemes: • junction enhancement on the A420 at Faringdon and Shrivenham New development in these areas should be carefully designed, having regard to matters such as building layout, noise insulation, landscaping and means of access. Any proposals for development that may reasonably be considered to impact the delivery of the identified schemes (as shown by maps in Appendix E and the Adopted Policies Map) should demonstrate the proposal would not harm their delivery. Planning permission will not be granted for development that would prejudice the construction or effective operation of the transport schemes listed above.

Promoting Sustainable Transport and Accessibility

The Council will work with Oxfordshire County Council and others to: i. actively seek to ensure that the impacts of new development on the strategic and local road network are minimised ii. ensure that developments are designed in a way to promote sustainable transport access both within new sites, and linking with surrounding facilities and employment iii. support measures identified in the Local Transport Plan for the district, including within the relevant local area strategies iv. support improvements for accessing Oxford v. ensure that transport improvements are designed to minimise any effects on the amenities, character and special qualities of the surrounding area, and vi. promote and support improvements to the transport network that increase safety, improve air quality and/or make our towns and villages more attractive.

A34 Strategy

The Council will continue to work with Highways England, Oxfordshire County Council and other partners to develop and implement a Route Based Strategy for the A34, which enables it to function as a major strategic route, thereby reducing consequential congestion on the local road network. The Council will continue to work with Highways England, Oxfordshire County Council and other partners to develop an air quality monitoring framework associated with the A34 within the Vale of White Horse District to monitor any impact on the Oxford Meadows SAC.

Promoting Public Transport, Cycling and Walking

The Council will work with Oxfordshire County Council and others to: i. encourage the use of sustainable modes of transport and support measures that enable a modal shift to public transport, cycling and walking in the district ii. ensure new development is located close to, or along, existing strategic public transport corridors, where bus services can then be strengthened in response to increases in demand for travel iii. ensure that new development is designed to encourage walking as the preferred means of transport, not only within the development, but also to nearby facilities and transport hubs iv. ensure that new development encourages and enables cycling not only through the internal design of the site, but also through the provision of cycle friendly infrastructure to link the new residents with nearby services, employment areas, educational facilities and public transport hubs where interchange can be provided for longer distance travel v. seek to support the provision of new cycling routes where the proposals are consistent with the other policies of this plan vi. ensure proposals for major development* are supported by a Transport Assessment and Travel Plan, in accordance with Oxfordshire County Council guidance**, and vii. ensure adequate parking is delivered on new developments in accordance with Oxfordshire County Council's published standards***.