CONTENTIOUS plans to build 75 homes on land to the north of Witney will go before a planning committee for a second time next week.

Councillors and residents have expressed concerns that Springfield Oval, a cul-de-sac, is too tight to serve as the access road to the new development, as well as raising fears over places in nearby doctors' surgeries.

The proposals by rg+p Ltd were deferred by a West Oxfordshire District Council last month so members could visit the site and assess its impact on the landscape of the Windrush Valley.

Tracey Walker, of Springfield Oval, said: "Soon there will only be three GP practices in Witney and they are already struggling to cope. They will soon have to deal with the closure of Deer Park Medical Centre and 4,000 extra patients to provide care for.

"I also have concerns with the flow of traffic around Springfield Oval."

At the last meeting some councillors suggested that access to the site through Springfield Oval created a safety risk.

Councillor Henry Howard, a former Stagecoach bus driver who had a route through Witney, said that the street could prove a nightmare for large vehicles.

He added: "I drove a 25 seater. The buses now are 29 seaters and significantly larger than what I drove round there, so the problem is even more acute."

Councillor Duncan Enright said that access was his big worry regarding the site, and questioned how the council could ensure the safety of residents living in Springfield Oval.

The development is comprised entirely of affordable housing. Though commended by councillors, it does mean the contribution to the council will be lower than usual, with about £100,000 expected in Section 106 funding.

Councillors will discuss the application again at a meeting in Witney next Tuesday.