AN application to build 270 homes in Witney’s Windrush Valley has been delayed after the developer was asked to carry out more research.

Gladman Homes submitted plans to West Oxfordshire District Council last month but has been told to carry out an environmental impact assessment before it can be considered.

It follows concerns by residents that the site, off Burford Road, is prone to flooding and is near a gas storage facility.

They have set up the Windrush Valley Protection Group and issued A4 protest posters to 1,000 homes in the area.

Group co-chairwoman Liz Abbett, of Burford Road, said she wants residents opposed to the scheme to be ready when the application is submitted.

She said: “It’s part of the procedure that they should have done and they were probably just taking a chance to see if they could get away without doing it.

“For us it’s about keeping up momentum and awareness and making sure as many people know about it so they can get their views across at the right time.”

Witney Central councillor Andrew Coles said: “I personally take it that Gladman hasn’t considered seriously enough about the impact of developing there and the serious implications for the town.

“They are simply trying to make a quick profit and should listen to local residents and use their local knowledge and experience.”

District council spokeswoman Carys Davies said: “An application has been submitted, but not yet registered.

“This is a sensitive greenfield site and the council has requested additional information in the form of an environmental impact assessment.

“The applicant disagrees with this request and discussions are ongoing.”

Gladman Homes refused to comment.

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