Plans unveiled by Cotswold District Council propose the construction of 19,000 new homes across the region, sparking strong opposition from local villages concerned about the impact on their communities and environment.
Under the proposals, Moreton-in-Marsh could see 2,217 new houses, with other communities such as Cirencester (3,717), Down Ampney (1,658), and Preston (1,368) also earmarked for significant development. Additional villages including Mickleton (1,238 homes), Fairford (1,141), Kemble (1,020), and Siddington (372) face expansion as part of a strategy to accommodate new housing over the next two decades until 2043.
This ambitious blueprint, forming part of the council’s new local plan, also includes provisions for schools, transport links, health centres, parks, and community buildings. It is scheduled for discussion by councillors in the coming month.
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However, many local residents have voiced their displeasure, some describing the proposals as “horrifying” and threatening to leave their villages if development proceeds. They fear that their rural communities will be transformed into densely populated towns.
Annett and Andrew Stevens, lifelong residents of Moreton-in-Marsh and members of the group Moreton Against Overdevelopment, expressed their frustration. Andrew, 68, commented, “It’s not that we oppose all growth-we understand the need-but there’s a limit. We’ve attended numerous meetings, but it feels like the council steamrolls over our concerns.”
“They make it seem democratic, but none of us wants more development. We feel powerless.”
Annett added concerns regarding local infrastructure, saying, “The roads here are already struggling. When the main routes like the Fosse Way are congested, traffic floods the smaller back roads, making travel difficult and dangerous.”
Attempts to seek legal advice have been hampered by costs, with the group unable to raise funds for a planning lawyer. Andrew noted that community awareness can be limited unless residents are active online, making it challenging to mobilise opposition effectively.
In Fairford, near a large cornfield slated for development, resident Alison Sadler, 55, learned of the plans only recently. She expressed fears about the impact on local amenities and the environment. “We bought our home for the view of the fields, which a survey assured us were unsuitable for building. The roads are narrow and prone to accidents, and flooding is already an issue that would worsen,” she said.
Alison also highlighted healthcare concerns, remarking, “There’s only one surgery with limited doctors, and dental services are scarce with long waiting lists. It’s hard to see how the existing facilities could support thousands of new residents.”
Grace Webb, 38, who lives in Mickleton with her young children, emphasised worries about education provision. “After recent developments near us, road repairs lagged despite our complaints. The local primary school is visible from our home; it would be heartbreaking if our children couldn’t attend because of new residents.”
Carol, 75, recently relocated to Mickleton and recalled the village’s charm. She said, “It’s shocking to think our quiet village will become a town. Increased traffic is inevitable as many new residents will commute to larger cities, but the roads can’t handle it now.”
The council insists the plan is critical for addressing housing demand, curbing speculative building, and supporting both present and future generations. The schedule anticipates 420 homes built annually for the first five years, increasing to over 1,500 homes per year towards the end, with approximately 40% designated as affordable housing.
A public consultation period is planned from August 24 to October 5, subject to councillor approval.
Council leader Mike Evemy stated, “The council recognises the housing challenges we face. Without a new plan, communities are vulnerable to uncontrolled development and appeals. This plan allows us to influence growth, ensure quality developments, and provide essential infrastructure.”
He added, “It balances delivering affordable homes, jobs, and services while protecting the unique character and environment of the Cotswolds, and addresses climate change through efficient new homes.”
The plan is set for discussion by various committees in early August and aims for official adoption by March 2028 following approval by the Secretary of State.