Plans for Salt Cross Garden Village in West Oxfordshire approved by inspector
The new carbon neutral community takes a major step forward towards development
Plans for the ambitious Salt Cross Garden Village project in West Oxfordshire have reached a significant milestone, with confirmation that its Area Action Plan (AAP) meets national planning standards.
The government-appointed Planning Inspector has backed the proposal, ensuring the project moves towards final approval. The council aims to deliver a climate-conscious, well-designed community that sets new standards, particularly with its Net Zero Carbon Development policy, which ensures energy efficiency for new buildings in the area.
Located north of the A40 near Eynsham, Salt Cross is set to become one of the first UK communities to embed net zero energy principles into its development plans.
What the plans include
The Area Action Plan outlines guidance for developing the village, which is expected to feature:
- Around 2,200 new homes
- 40 hectares of employment land
- Schools, community facilities, and green infrastructure
- Safe walking, cycling, and public transport routes
- A Biodiverse Country Park and targets for biodiversity net gain
The Inspector’s endorsement comes after years of scrutiny, including a judicial review in 2023 due to the net zero policy, and extensive public consultation. Following minor adjustments and community support, the plan received approval.
Cllr Hugo Ashton, Executive Member for Planning, expressed pride in the council’s achievement, saying:
“This is a huge moment for Salt Cross and for West Oxfordshire. Salt Cross is all about doing things differently. From the beginning, we’ve worked to prove that net zero development can be practical, viable and legally robust, and I am extremely proud that we have been able to achieve that.”
Cllr Andy Graham, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, added:
“Salt Cross has always aimed high, and the Inspector’s report shows that we were right to do so. It’s proof that local leadership matters. Despite legal challenges and changing national policy, we’ve held the line and delivered a robust, ambitious plan that responds directly to the challenges we face, from the climate emergency to the need for well-planned, sustainable growth.”
Next steps
The Council’s executive will review the Inspector’s findings during a meeting on 11th February 2026. A Full Council meeting will then take place on 25th February 2026 to consider adopting the plan.
If adopted, the AAP will pave the way for decision-making and delivery of the development. It will guide future planning applications and infrastructure proposals to ensure the village aligns with the council’s vision and policies.
An outline planning application for the site is already under review, with further detailed applications expected in the future. Discussions regarding funding for infrastructure and services via Section 106 agreements are ongoing.
The Council has also launched a website for Salt Cross Garden Village to keep residents, developers, and community members updated on key milestones: Salt Cross website