Plans for a significant housing development that aims to build 750 homes near the rapidly expanding town of Bicester have been announced by Gladman Developments. The proposed site, located north of Caversfield, will not only feature residential units but also include essential community infrastructure such as a primary school and a community centre.
The development plan emphasizes green spaces, with over half of the site designated for recreational use. This includes sports pitches, children’s play areas, and a community orchard. To improve accessibility, the project will introduce a new roundabout on the A4421 and a greenway running through the neighbourhood.
A spokesperson for Gladman Developments stated, “In summer 2025, we carried out consultation with the local community, and we have since carefully reviewed all the feedback received.” The spokesperson highlighted that the upcoming outline planning application aims to deliver a landscape-led neighbourhood that integrates new homes with green spaces and community facilities.
“Our aim is to create a welcoming, well-connected place that respects its setting and delivers meaningful benefits for both existing and future members of the community,” the spokesperson added. The plans are intended to foster a development that prioritizes landscape, nature, and community engagement.
Broader Context of Local Developments
The announcement comes in the wake of another housing proposal for 475 homes situated between Camp Road and Lower Heyford Road, close to Heyford Park. Developer Richborough has submitted its plans to Cherwell District Council, which include features such as vehicle access via Camp Road, children’s play areas, and public open spaces.
Adjacent to these proposals is a larger plan for 9,000 homes at the former RAF base at Heyford Park, submitted by Dorchester Living last September. This area is poised to become one of the many ‘new towns’ designated under a government initiative aimed at addressing housing shortages across the country.
In addition to residential developments, the surrounding region is experiencing substantial investment, including plans for a £600 million theme park, Puy du Fou, near Bucknell. While some large-scale projects, such as plans for four warehouses near junction 10 off the M40, have been rejected by the council, the developer has indicated intentions to appeal the decision.
Community Concerns and Considerations
Local councillor Gareth Epps, who represents the Heyford Park area, emphasized the necessity of considering these developments holistically. He expressed awareness of the concerns raised by residents in nearby Caulcott, particularly regarding the proximity of the Heyford Park expansion to the village.
Epps noted, “The site is very prone to flooding and that needs to be looked at. What I hope is that we can find some way of looking at these things in the round.” He pointed out that while 475 new homes might seem relatively small compared to 9,000, they would still contribute significantly to local traffic, potentially resulting in 700 car journeys per day unless mitigations, such as reopening Ardley Station, are implemented.
As the community awaits the formal outline planning application from Gladman Developments, the unfolding housing landscape in and around Bicester presents both opportunities for growth and challenges that will require careful management to ensure sustainable development.
