'Don't spoil Woodstock' pleads mayor (From Witney Gazette)

'Don't spoil Woodstock' pleads mayor

8:55pm Friday 19th September 2008 in Witney By Tom Shepherd

The mayor of Woodstock has pleaded with developers and the local planning authority not to spoil his picturesque town.

Peter Jay joined 100 townsfolk in calling for West Oxfordshire District Council to 'act responsibly' when pushing forward plans for 125 new homes.

The council is considering the plans at four locations in the town, while four more, including greenfield sites, have been earmarked for possible future development.

Woodstock Town Council called a special meeting at the town's community centre on Tuesday following residents' concerns that the proposed developments would not meet the needs of the town.

Mr Jay said: "Nearly 100 people came along. The atmosphere was intense. Local people are very concerned about the future.

"We want the district council to listen to the views of town councillors and the people of Woodstock and act responsibly.

"We don't want large commercial developments.

He added; "We need affordable housing for Woodstock people, real Woodstock folk, the children and families reaching adulthood who need homes."

Plans to build 30 homes and a new medical centre near the entrance to Blenheim Palace were the subject of the most debate at the public meeting.

Youngs Garage — the site of the proposed development — includes a historic former railway station, which would be demolished if the scheme went ahead.

Townsfolk called for the scheme to include affordable housing and a revised plan which would mean the railway station would not be destroyed.

Town councillor Colin Carritt said: "We need more affordable housing because there is a very big demand locally.

"Current planned developments collectively provide something in the region of 40-50 affordable homes, but at the last count we needed 70-80."

West Oxfordshire District Council said it welcomed opinions from local people when considering planning decisions.

Developer Berkeley Homes was unavailable for comment.