THE next stage of Bicester’s eco-town, including 1,700 homes, a school and a retirement village, has been approved for development.

Plans for Himley Village were given the go ahead by Cherwell District Council as the proposals came back in front of councillors for the second time.

The application, to be built on land off the Middleton Stoney Road, also includes plans for shops and social facilities, as well as an energy centre.

Cherwell District Council lead member for planning Colin Clarke said: “Safe, Green and Clean is one of Cherwell’s key strategic priorities, and Himley Village is set to be a showcase for sustainable living on a site designated for an eco-village.

“As well as reducing the impact of development on the environment, the village will put sustainable transport at the heart of its infrastructure, making it easier for people to live healthier lifestyles. There will also be provision for sport, play and education.”

The village will incorporate footpath and cycle routes to encourage healthy living and developers plan to retain existing trees and hedgerows.

Mr Clarke added: “Of course a project of this size needs to be supported by appropriate transport infrastructure, and so we have put in place conditions to ensure that infrastructure work and housing development go hand in hand.”

The decision was originally deferred in February last year for applicants Portfolio Property Partners Ltd to address concerns over the likely increase in traffic at the junction of Howes Lane, Bucknell Road and Lords Lane.

New plans proposed temporary signalling to help control traffic at the already busy junction and a condition was put on plans to restrict the build to 500 homes ahead of a new junction and tunnel being built at Howes Lane.

Resident George Rawlings said while he supported the development, there needs to be better provision for facilities such as schools and shops in Bicester.

He added: "Perhaps to help with shopping choice and alleviate some of the towns traffic problems a new shopping mall on the north east side of the town should be encouraged by planners that could also include schools, surgeries and even a pub/restaurant with a substantial shared car park for all visitors."