Proposed changes to NPPF and local impacts

Thu 18 Dec, 16:36

I have long believed that any town that benefits from a main line railway station should embrace population expansion within reason. The idea that green belt land should be used as described by Hans within a 15 minute walk from the station seems perfectly reasonable. The number of trains per hour would have probably increased by now if this had been adopted along the entire line some time ago.

Thu 18 Dec, 11:29

Proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework NPPF and potential impacts for Charlbury. 

The current government has been saying for some time that they want more houses to be built. Now we know what that means through the proposed changes to the NPPF.

A key plank is that house building within 15 minutes walk of a well connected rail station should always be allowed. 

Well connected means 4 trains an hour in the normal weekday timetable. Charlbury has two - one in each direction. 

There are many other proposed changes but they are imho relatively minor tweaks. Neighbourhood plans remain in force as part of the development plan and policies therein should still be adhered to unless there is a lawful reason not to do so.