New planning application submitted for 1,300 homes at UK’s largest self build scheme

A fresh hybrid planning application has been submitted for 1,329 homes at Graven Hill, the UK’s largest self-build and custom new homes community.        

Outline planning permission for 1,900 homes at the former Ministry of Defence site in Oxfordshire was originally granted by Cherwell district council in 2014 but this was subject to a requirement that reserved matters applications be submitted within eight years.

So far, 745 homes have been delivered at Graven Hill and a new application has been prepared for the remaining parts of the scheme. 

Graven Hill Village Development Company (GHVDC) is seeking new outline permission for the residential development, as well as an extra care facility, supporting infrastructure, a pub/restaurants and other amenities.

It is also looking for full planning permission for 34 homes on a small site adjacent to Anniversary Avenue East, as well as associated parking areas, access and public open space.

The developer has held extensive consultation on the new hybrid applications, which ran from November 2022 to February 2023, and during February 2024 and March 2024.

These led to updates to the masterplan and the development of a design code which establishes site-wide and street type character area design requirements. 

Adrian Unitt, managing director of GHVDC, said: “This is an outline application which sets out key parameters for the remaining development rather than determining the detail and we look forward to further engagement through the application process.”