THE number of houses, potential flooding problems and the proximity to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty were the issues raised by residents as they examined proposals for up to 500 new homes at Littlemoor.

But some people at a public consultation where plans for the mixed development were put on display welcomed the idea of encouraging more businesses to the area.

The plans include space for commercial use and community facilities, including a school.

Richard Boother (CORR), associate director at consultancy firm RPS, said the scheme could bring a lot of benefits to Littlemoor.

“Of the 500 new homes, 30 per cent would be affordable housing. The plans include a new school, a large area of public open space, and an extended local service centre with scope for various uses.

“Issues that come out of this consultation, for instance if the community wants certain facilities, then we can look at that.”

He said it was too early to tell what the overall feeling of the community regarding the plans is, but said that more than 80 people had attended a display at Littlemoor Library in the first two days. This display can be viewed today (FRI) and tomorrow, then from Tuesday (SEPT 8) to Saturday, September 12. Responses can be sent before September 18 by email to littlemoorconsultation@rpsgroup.com or by post to Littlemoor Consultation, RPS, 20 Western Avenue, Milton Park, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 4SH.

Christine Doyle, 66, of Kestrel View, said affordable housing would not help people in her age group.

“We are looking to downsize but there is nothing affordable for us. This development is on the last little bit of green belt and it will affect the area. I don’t see why we need the industrial units but bringing more business to the area seems like a good idea.”

Jean Vevers (CORR), 69, also of Kestrel View, is concerned about the potential effect of the new houses on flood problems in the area.

She said: “Drainage is an issue. My husband clears the culverts to stop it flooding but he won’t be able to do it forever.”

And 68-year-old Dave Wright of Buddleia Close said: “With an extra 500 houses, what are we going to do about doctors’ surgeries? They are stretched as it is. Businesses would obviously be a help in the area but I don’t know if there are enough businesses who would want to move here.

“When you think of Littlemoor, it is a poorer area but also it is surrounded by the AONB. I would question what effect 500 extra homes would have on that.”

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