A picturesque Cotswolds village that served as a filming location for the hit ITV series Downton Abbey faces opposition from residents over plans for nearly 200 new homes.
Locals in Bampton, Oxfordshire, are mobilising against the proposed 190-dwelling scheme, voicing their frustrations on social media about the potential impact on their community.
One resident, who has lived in the village for 28 years, expressed dismay at the prospect of overdevelopment.
They said: “It’s a shame how places like Brampton become over developed with no real infrastructure to cope with such influx of houses.”
The same resident highlighted concerns about wildlife decline and the disappearance of farmland, warning that “countryside is being lost at such a colossal rate affecting wildlife and country life.”
The village was recognised last year as one of England’s most attractive chocolate box settlements by Independent Cottages.
Thames Water has reportedly indicated it cannot handle additional sewage in the area, raising fears about flooding and drainage capacity.
Another villager questioned the necessity of more housing, pointing to existing problems: “My water pressure is already poor and no need to mention doctors appointments.”
The Oxfordshire village was used to film the hit ITV series
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PA
The village featured heavily in the filming for the series
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ITV
A third local simply expressed hope that the development would be blocked.
The concerns reflect anxieties about whether local services and infrastructure can accommodate a significant population increase in the rural community.
The village’s connection to Downton Abbey has transformed it into a popular tourist destination, with the Old Rectory, public library and parish church of St Mary the Virgin all featuring in the television and film series.
American fans in particular have flocked to Bampton, though this influx has divided opinion among locals.
Residents expressed concern over the new development
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PA
Some residents welcome the economic benefits, claiming tourism generates a “small fortune” from “old biddies stuffed with cash” purchasing merchandise, with proceeds funding improvements to local buildings and services.
Others take a less favourable view, with one local expressing a desire for their “front drives free from brash American accents”.
Hourigan Planning is preparing an outline planning application for the scheme on behalf of Anwyl Land Limited, having distributed leaflets to households detailing the proposal.
A spokesman for Hourigan stated: “The scheme would comprise a mix of both open market homes and affordable homes, and includes significant areas of accessible open space.”
The public consultation closes later this month
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PA
The development would allocate 40 per cent of properties as affordable housing and deliver a 10 per cent biodiversity net gain in accordance with government regulations.
Plans also include new pathways throughout the site and two equipped play areas.
The public consultation closes on Sunday, March 22, after which the developers will submit their application to West Oxfordshire District Council.