Landmark Salt Cross development moves forward as ambitious Net Zero policy is approved

The policy, which aims to ensure that all buildings at Salt Cross are Net Zero carbon in operation, has been found to comply with national policy and to be ‘sound’ in other respects, subject to several modifications. It marks a significant achievement for the Council and places Salt Cross among the UK’s leading developments in sustainable place-making. 

The Council resubmitted the Net Zero policy for re-examination earlier this year, following a successful legal challenge by community group Rights Community Action in 2023. The legal challenge came after the government previously refused the ambitious targets in the plan. 

The Inspector considered the Council’s revised proposals at a public hearing earlier this year. The proposals are supported by a strong evidence base demonstrating that Net Zero carbon homes and buildings are both financially viable for developers but also essential in the face of the climate and ecological emergencies 

Councillor Hugo Ashton, Executive Member for Planning, said: 
“This is a hugely positive moment for West Oxfordshire and for the future of sustainable development. Our vision for Salt Cross has always been bold: to create a truly modern garden village that sets the standard for low-carbon living. 

“We don’t want to just accept more of the same housebuilding – we want homes and communities fit for the future, to benefit both new homeowners and the environment. These homes will be much cheaper to run while reducing our impact on the climate. 

“The Inspector’s decision confirms that our Net Zero policy is not only ambitious, but also achievable and sound. It should provide real confidence to other local authorities across the country that with a strong evidence base, it is possible to adopt strong Net Zero policies that are both deliverable and legally robust.” 

Councillor Andy Graham, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, added: 
“This is a landmark decision that puts West Oxfordshire at the forefront of climate-conscious development. It shows what’s possible when councils are prepared to lead with ambition, work with communities, and push for the highest standards in housing and place-making. Salt Cross can now move forward as an exemplar development that puts people, planet and future generations at its heart.” 

The Planning Inspector has concluded that the Council’s approach is consistent with national policy and is ‘sound’ in other respects, subject to some modifications which the Council will now work up and agree with the Inspector ahead of a 6-week period of public consultation.  

 The modifications will enhance clarity, remove duplication, and reflect evolving technical standards, making the policy more practical to implement across a large, phased development. 

The Council will now write to the Planning Inspector with a proposed timetable for preparing the draft modifications. Once agreed, the amended policy will be published for a six-week public consultation. The Inspector will then review any comments received and issue her final report, paving the way for the Council to formally adopt the full Salt Cross Area Action Plan. Once the plan is in place the Council can start to review planning applications with development on the site due to follow. It is hoped the first homes will be built around 2029/2030.