Bicester’s constituency MP and a local residents’ organisation have offered their thoughts after Heyford Park was taken off the official list of New Town designations.
Across the last fifteen years, Dorchester Living has erected 1,200 dwellings against a total target of 13,000 at the decommissioned RAF station outside Bicester. This scheme constitutes a £5 billion investment.
Proposals for a further 9,000 homes at the site were dropped when officials scaled back the new towns initiative from twelve to seven locations earlier this week. The blueprint could still proceed should Cherwell District Council give its consent.
Calum Miller, Bicester’s parliamentary representative, said the ruling highlights how crucial additional housing is while warning that growth must not worsen pressures on overstretched public services.
He explained that the ruling should serve as a warning. More residences are required, yet development should not create extra strain on roads and utilities that are already stretched to their limits.
Given other substantial local development and infrastructure schemes underway in the region, he stressed that a joined-up strategy is vital and called on ministers to clarify why this site was not progressed.
He added that government members must not keep delaying this matter. They need to tackle the infrastructure gaps in the area and make certain that upcoming expansion helps local residents rather than causing them difficulties.
The Heyford Park Community Action Group said people living locally are seeking assurance about what this choice signifies for them, as the community requires services, conveniences, and fundamental infrastructure.
They noted that while the new town scheme raised concerns for numerous residents, it did present a possible solution to the persistent absence of engagement, evasion, and failures on the part of the company currently running the settlement.
The collective said Dorchester Living is not succeeding in building a sustainable community there, and they pleaded with decision-makers to step in and force Dorchester to deliver before any further planning or expansion permissions are awarded.
The group said decision-makers should honour the pledges made to current inhabitants before being allowed to expand their project.
Dorchester Living affirmed its commitment to maintaining partnership with the local community, relevant bodies, and ministers, saying this reflects clear endorsement and acknowledgement.
A representative said Heyford Park has evolved into a vibrant neighbourhood featuring an impressive array of amenities, considerably exceeding what is typically found in comparable schemes.
They stressed that their commitment continues to be centred on establishing not simply buildings, but a truly flourishing community. This is something they hold in high regard, and it manifests in the profound loyalty and contentment experienced by the majority of those living there.
They noted that further enhancements are in the pipeline, and they look forward to continuing to enhance and grow this remarkable neighbourhood.