Cotswold District Council has given the green light to a development that will bring 280 new homes to the outskirts of Cirencester, including 112 affordable units, marking a significant step toward addressing the growing housing demand in the area.
The Robert Hitchins Ltd project, located off Kingshill Lane near Preston, was approved in outline by the council’s planning committee with a six to three vote on 11 June. Council planners emphasize the importance of these homes for the community, highlighting the ongoing commitment to provide genuinely affordable housing that enables people to remain in the region.
Councillor Juliet Layton, the council’s portfolio member for housing and planning, acknowledged the challenges that come with the decision, noting that a similar proposal was rejected two years ago. She explained that changes in government housing targets have altered the planning landscape dramatically.
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In December, national housing mandates increased significantly, compelling the district to accommodate more than twice the number of homes previously required—over 1,000 additional houses annually. This shift means the council must carefully balance the need for growth with protecting rural character and community interests.
Councillor Layton pointed out that while the council retains the ability to refuse applications, doing so risks costly appeals that could ultimately go against local wishes. Approving the Kingshill Lane development now allows for controlled, high-quality expansion rather than facing the uncertainties of a protracted appeals process.
Importantly, the council is committed to ensuring new developments come with necessary infrastructure improvements, including roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and sewage systems. The project also includes plans for green spaces, cycle paths, and pedestrian links to local schools, aiming to foster sustainable, climate-friendly communities that respect the character of Preston and its surroundings.
This decision underscores Cotswold District Council’s goal to create well-planned communities that balance growth with environmental considerations, community well-being, and affordability, ensuring the district meets its housing needs responsibly and thoughtfully.