A new housing scheme aims to introduce nine dwellings to an Oxfordshire village with a population of approximately 620 people.

The tiny hamlet of Fringford, located near Bicester, boasts a primary school, a tavern, a village hall, a plant nursery and a church, surrounded by a limited number of houses.

Blueprints have been submitted to Cherwell District Council for modern residences to extend the village towards the west.

The documentation describes the location as possessing a lengthy heritage, with archaeological findings suggesting the settlement could extend back around two thousand years.

The scheme involves building nine properties suitable for families on land situated directly south of Rectory Lane and to the south-east of Green Farm along Main Street in Fringford, an area currently utilised for agricultural or equestrian purposes.

Apart from two homes connected by separate garages, every residence would be detached buildings.

RD Developments is seeking outline permission for the homes along with facilities, including two driveway parking spaces per family, private garage structures, garden grounds and a decorative water element within the new estate.

The homes would be positioned along a primary access route, with a fresh footpath to be constructed on the western boundary of the site to connect with the present village.

This application comes after an earlier scheme from the same developer submitted in March 2024, which Cherwell District Council turned down citing six reasons, covering development principles, visual form and character, tree protection and road safety concerns.

The developer contested this decision and the six issues were subsequently upheld by the local authority; however, the planning inspector rejected the appeal, noting possible damage to the amenities of the neighbouring residence referred to as The Cottage.

In refiling the same scheme, the developer agreed to transfer land to the occupant of The Cottage to expand their garden and address the scheme’s concern.

The documentation explained that acknowledging the relationship between the proposed construction and the cottage located to the west, and responding to expressed concerns, a parcel of land has been given to the neighbouring cottage to enlarge its garden space.

This modification offers a clear benefit to the cottage’s immediate surroundings, guaranteeing that its outdoor area is enhanced rather than reduced by the construction.

Additionally, the cottage’s windows will be replaced with soundproof versions.

These positive modifications demonstrate commitment to addressing nearby objections while delivering homes that complement the local area.

The application continues to be examined on Cherwell District Council’s website, with a verdict expected by June.