A DEVELOPER previously denied permission to build 127 homes in the village where ITV period drama Downton Abbey films outdoor scenes has returned with a new planning application.

Gladman Homes has submitted plans to West Oxfordshire District Council for 116 homes in Aston Road, Bampton.

The move comes as it prepares to fight the district council in an appeal over the original proposal, rejected in January due to concerns over flood risk and its closeness to the conservation area.

The council has also since then approved 160 homes in New Road, despite an opposition petition signed by 330 residents and 100 letters of objection.

Resident Lesley Campbell, of the Save Bampton’s Future campaign, said the new proposal was no different.

She said: “It’s an almost identical application. Most people think it’s the same application so wonder whether there’s any point in responding.

“There’s been no significant change in circumstances in Bampton, and if anything West Oxfordshire has improved its five-year land supply by approving the 160 houses in New Road.

“Flooding is a major issue and it’s not a sustainable proposal on any front.”

In a planning statement, Gladman said it would use a sustainable urban drainage sytem (SUDS) to prevent flooding.

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