SOLVING the county’s housing shortage is a no win situation. The simple fact is we need a lot more new homes.

The problem is trying to find suitable locations for them.

Woodstock is now in the sights of developers, with plans for 1,500 homes.

The county has earmarked the location as it believes it is one of the most suitable sites.

But residents are vehemently opposed to the proposals, which they believe would overwhelm the town.

There is a fine line to be trodden here in appeassing the housing need without destroying the reason so many people want to live in Oxfordshire.

Any proposed site needs to be able to deal with an influx of people. Infrastructure from roads to rail and schools to sewerage is essential. But the danger in building it is that our towns and villages may lose their character.

Local plans are designed to help this process, highlighting where developments should be and what they should look like.

But many fall short of the large totals the Strategic Market Housing Assessment says is required. Consultations with residents are an important part of the process.

But a dose of realism is also needed because if the houses need to go elsewhere we will reach crisis point.

While most do not want huge developments on their doorsteps, they will also want their children and grandchildren to be able to find somewhere to live in the county.

The next few years will be crucial in establishing this balancing act, with councils having the unenviable task of leading the way.