Cotswold residents are being invited to share their views on plans to build 18,650 new homes across the district by 2043 as concerns mount over the ambitious housing growth target.
Cotswold District Council is preparing an updated local plan that, pending inspector approval, will guide development until 2043. The council faces a significant challenge as the annual housing target has more than doubled—from 493 to over 1,000 homes per year. This sharp increase has led to the loss of the district’s five-year housing land supply, making it harder for the council to reject planning applications.
To address this, the council is revising the local plan to accommodate necessary infrastructure, control development, and align housing growth with community priorities. Their preferred option proposes delivering 14,660 homes—79% of the government’s housing target—including several large-scale strategic sites with over 500 homes each.
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Notable developments would include 660 homes north of Ampney Crucis, 400 homes south of The Steadings in Cirencester, an 840-home new village in Driffield, 780 homes northeast of Fairford, and 590 homes in Kemble. Additional plans envisage a 1,710-home extension around Moreton-in-Marsh, 900 homes to the south of Preston, and an 880-home strategic expansion around Siddington.
Council leader Mike Evemy explained the urgency of updating the local plan to meet government requirements and directed residents to participate in the consultation, which runs from November 14 to January 2. He acknowledged the valid concerns of communities facing potentially dramatic growth, especially small villages, and urged residents to provide feedback on potential impacts and infrastructure needs.
“The Government has imposed an unrealistic housing target on us,” Evemy said. “Our officers are working hard to create a plan that balances growth with community needs and infrastructure. We understand this causes anxiety, but it’s crucial residents have their say.”
Despite continuing to challenge the target, the council recognizes the necessity of development, particularly affordable housing, and stresses the importance of identifying suitable locations and supporting infrastructure.
Residents, businesses, and community groups are encouraged to engage through the Local Plan online consultation available at your.cotswold.gov.uk. Drop-in events with planning officers will be held across the district throughout November and December. Hard copies of the consultation are also available at all district public libraries and council offices in Cirencester and Moreton-in-Marsh.
Cllr Evemy’s message to the community is clear: “Have your say! These proposals are current options outlining possible housing numbers and locations. Your input on planning issues such as quality of life, environment, highways, housing, and community needs is vital to shaping the future of the district.”