A large housing development featuring 2,500 homes close to a reptile sanctuary has progressed despite warnings about possible harm to the surrounding area.

The housebuilding company and the Oxford University college behind the scheme submitted plans for the extensive project on agricultural land located north of the village. The proposal would connect two nearby settlements through an application to the local planning authority.

The council has now provided feedback highlighting issues that must be addressed, with a full environmental assessment and statement required before any formal planning application can proceed.

The scheme for the parcel situated between the A40 and Burford Road includes provisions for a new primary school, local amenities, cemetery, and land earmarked for a potential railway station serving the northern part of the area along with its associated rail connection.

Planning documents suggest construction could begin by 2027, with 1,500 homes completed by 2041.

Local resident Paul Hughes has submitted an objection, saying the entire scheme needs fundamental rethinking and coordinated council planning to prevent the area from being destroyed for current and future residents and the local environment from being essentially ruined.

The council’s head of planning responded that significant impacts are expected to arise, and no screening request has been submitted, with agreement that the proposal qualifies as EIA development.

Environmental assessments are only required for schemes likely to cause substantial effects.

The application outlined potential impacts and methodology for studying the 161.1-hectare site, described as open fields bordered by hedgerows, with areas of woodland and several patches of dense vegetation.

The application noted the scheme would also border a quarry, a few residential properties, and the Crocodiles of the World facility.

The masterplan suggests the development would offer an opportunity to support improvements or expansion of the reptile zoo.

Earlier this year, the developer and college held public consultation events about the plans in the village.

A dedicated website has been launched providing information about the scheme.

It outlines the college’s and developer’s involvement in the plans, stating they anticipate securing planning consent in 2027.

The site says Christ Church is dedicated to bringing forward land for new housing and mixed-use developments across the Oxford area and further afield.

It adds that Bloor works closely with local communities and builds quality homes for purchasers.

Previously, the two organisations collaborated on the Brize Meadow development of 799 homes.