Council consider eco-town plans

Plans for a site eco-town in Weston Otmoor attracted public opposition

Proposals for an Oxfordshire eco-town are to go before councillors who will decide whether to back the scheme.

The development in Bicester was suggested as an alternative to a larger site at Weston Otmoor which drew widespread opposition from residents.

Plans would see 5,000 environmentally friendly homes built on the outskirts of the north Oxfordshire town.

If Cherwell council's executive committee vote in favour, designs would then go before the planning committee.

Ministers said the 15,000 home Weston Otmoor would only be suitable with "substantial innovation".

Councillor Barry Wood, leader of Cherwell District Council, has said they would only back plans if they thought they were right for the town.

He said: "Bicester deserves the best and we will only pursue this option if we're absolutely confident it achieves that aim."