The New Local Plan

WODC's new Local plan will extend up to 2043

but has yet to be adopted

The Plan suggests placing Bampton in something called Tier 2, along with villages such as Woodstock and Long Hanborough.

The SPB lobbied hard for us NOT to be in this Tier, as it could attract larger housing developments.

Amongst our arguments was the fact that we do not have the sustainable transport infrastructure that villages in the same category enjoy. Long Hanborough, for example, has a railway station.

It seems likely we will not win this argument. However, the Plan does suggest limiting new houses in Bampton to 150 through to 2034, which is a result of sorts. 

Or it will be, if and when the plan is adopted!

Unforuntaley, this is still not the case, which means specualtive developers can continue to jump in hoping to exploit this loophole in the law.

Which is exactly what they have done

see our section of CURRENT THREATS

Key dates for the Local Plan:

• Spring–Summer 2026: Publish Regulation 19 draft plan 

• Mid-2026: 6-week public consultation on that draft

• Late 2026: Submit plan to Secretary of State 

• Examination hearing and possible modifications

Final adoption (likely 2027+ in reality)