Strong opposition is mounting against plans to build homes on a cherished wildlife and natural beauty site at the edge of Cheltenham. Waddeton Park Ltd has submitted proposals to develop over four acres of grassland on the south side of Glenfall Way in Charlton Kings.
Cheltenham Borough Council’s planning committee is scheduled to decide on the proposal for four self-build homes and open space this Thursday (November 20), with planning officers recommending approval. However, nearly 100 local residents have formally objected, describing the impact as “devastating.”
The countryside charity CPRE Gloucestershire has also lodged a strong objection, insisting the plans should be refused to preserve the area’s ecological value.
Kate Murray, coordinator of Save Glenfall Way AONB, called the scheme “catastrophic” and expressed deep concern over the loss of habitat for the “countless” wildlife species that depend on the field. “It is devastating that developers keep returning to this beautiful land. This area, part of the Cotswold National Landscape, is afforded high protection, and losing it would be a massive blow to the community,” she said.
The Cheltenham Civic Society echoed these sentiments, warning against sacrificing valuable countryside and natural heritage for minimal housing gains. A spokesperson remarked, “This case is all about profit for a single developer, not the community’s interests.”
Local councillor Chris Day (LD) of Battledown ward has thrown his support behind the campaign. He insisted the decision should rest with the planning committee and highlighted the UK’s struggle with nature depletion. “This field is a precious wildlife haven, and the developer admits their plans will cause habitat loss,” Councillor Day said. “The community united in strong opposition is a clear message that this development is unwanted.”
Despite the developer conducting a neighbourhood consultation, no expressions of support have emerged. Councillor Day emphasized that the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) carries the highest level of planning protection, which must be respected.
In response, consultants representing the applicant argue the development has been carefully designed to respect the site’s edge-of-town location within the Cotswold National Landscape. Key scenic views are reportedly maintained and enhanced through thoughtful plot layout and landscaping.
They acknowledge some limited impact on the landscape character but assert that every effort has been made to minimize harm and improve local habitats. The proposal also promises public benefits, including much-needed housing in a sustainable location, enhancement and rerouting of an existing public right of way, and biodiversity gains exceeding statutory minimums.
The consultants stress that Cheltenham is falling short of self-build housing supply, and these benefits outweigh any adverse effects the development might cause.
The fate of this controversial proposal will be decided by Cheltenham Borough Council’s planning committee on November 20.