A proposal to construct 16 dwellings at a Cotswolds village boundary has been condemned by angry residents who describe it as unsuitable.

The construction scheme, with eight units designated as affordable, is earmarked for Shilton, situated along the route linking Carterton and Burford.

The submitted documents to West Oxfordshire District Council indicate the properties would differ in dimensions.

However, local inhabitants have expressed dissatisfaction with the additional residences, arguing their settlement lacks capacity for further residents.

Shilton inhabitant Helena Wright remarked that villagers previously had an identical scheme rejected for the field across the road. She expressed hope that this application would suffer the same fate, citing concerns about lighting, pedestrian routes, public transport availability, and road congestion.

Neighbouring resident Jon Holloway observed that the development’s magnitude is unsuitable for numerous reasons, highlighting that the settlement’s facilities are already under strain, particularly wastewater and water supply systems.

Nigel Rawding pointed out that modifications to current residences in Shilton undergo strict oversight, suggesting that approving this scheme would undermine the established guidelines.

James Dashwood commented that the bid represents an unparalleled size for the settlement and ought to be firmly rejected. He described the application as absurd.

Sue Richmond cautioned that sixteen additional residences would substantially increase vehicle movements, noting that congestion is already problematic during school breaks and weekend periods due to the neighbouring Cotswold Wildlife Park.

She explained that Shilton comprises merely 70 properties and that another sizeable development called Shilton Park has essentially merged with Carterton nearby. She expressed concern that further construction would accelerate the disappearance of traditional villages and emphasised that Shilton has a rich heritage as an attractive settlement that should be maintained.

David Cuthbertson, chair of Shilton Parish Council, has submitted a formal objection for the council.

Mike Gilbert, representing the applicant, stated that the scheme has been developed to address Shilton’s affordable housing requirements.

He outlined that the project offers significant community advantages by supplying essential affordable accommodation for local residents, allowing current inhabitants to relocate to smaller properties and meet another housing demand, supporting the council’s five-year housing supply targets, bringing new energy to the community through a range of homes suitable for younger residents and families, making efficient use of a partially developed site, and delivering sixteen environmentally sustainable new residences.

The sixteen-property scheme accompanies another planning submission for eighteen homes on Shilton Road in Carterton, which officials are currently reviewing.

West Oxfordshire District Council will reach a determination on the proposals in due course.