Villagers in the Cotswolds are voicing strong opposition to plans that could see approximately 19,000 new homes built over the next two decades, fearing the development will transform their idyllic communities into overcrowded towns and threaten their way of life.
Cotswold District councillors are set to meet to begin the process of approving a new local plan that critics say will significantly expand villages, in some cases doubling or tripling their size by building on vacant land. Under the proposals, communities like Moreton-in-Marsh could see an addition of 2,217 houses, while Cirencester might grow by 3,717 properties. Other affected areas include Down Ampney, Preston, Mickleton, Fairford, Kemble, and Siddington. The expansion is part of a national housing drive aiming to build 1.5 million new homes during the current parliament, which includes mandatory council house-building targets.
Residents have expressed anger and concern, with some threatening to sell their homes. Annett and Andrew Stevens, members of the campaign group Moreton Against Overdevelopment, have lived in Moreton-in-Marsh their entire lives and object to building on fields to the south and east of the town. "We are not all NIMBYs, because we have already had a lot of building go on, but there comes a time when enough is enough," Mr. Stevens said. He described the council's approach as steamrolling and suggested residents felt powerless. The couple considered hiring a planning lawyer but were deterred by a £10,000 quote. Annett Stevens also raised concerns about existing infrastructure, stating, "The roads are terrible: it's like the M25 with massive big tractors flying down."
Alison Sadler, whose house in Fairford overlooks a proposed development site, learned of the plans recently and indicated she would sell her property if they proceed. "If that goes ahead, we will definitely sell up. We moved here three and a half years ago and we bought it because we have the nice view over the fields," she stated. Sadler also cited concerns about narrow roads, potential flooding, and inadequate local infrastructure, including a single GP surgery and a private dentist with an 18-month waiting list.
Grace Webb, a resident of Mickleton, expressed worries about school places for her young children. "I don't know anyone who is pleased about more houses," she said, recalling that road resurfacing after a previous development took three years. Carol, another Mickleton resident, called the proposal for over 1,200 homes "truly horrifying," predicting the village would become a town without adequate facilities. Similar sentiments were shared by Rodney Lambert, a retired mechanic from Kemble, where over 1,000 homes are planned. He noted that Kemble has changed significantly in recent years, "and not for the better," though he acknowledged a need for housing.
The district council maintains that the new homes are vital for addressing housing needs, preventing scattered development, and controlling where new construction occurs. The plan outlines a gradual building rate, starting with 420 homes annually for the first five years, increasing to over 1,000 and then 1,550 by the end of the 2030s. Approximately 40% of homes at major sites are designated as affordable housing. The plan is scheduled for review by council committees in August, followed by a six-week public consultation from August 24 to October 5. Housing Secretary Angela Rayner will ultimately review the plan.
Council leader Mike Evemy stated that failing to create a new local plan would reduce the council's influence over development quality and infrastructure. He added, "These are difficult choices, but avoiding them would not protect the Cotswolds." The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government has previously indicated that all areas must contribute to solving the housing crisis.