Himley Village, Bicester

• Planning approval will bring a further 123 new homes to Himley Village
• 30% of homes to be affordable, giving more local people the opportunity to own or rent a home
• Homes will seek to meet UK Government Future Homes Standard

Cala Homes (Cotswolds) has received Reserved Matters approval from Cherwell District Council for 123 homes for Phase 2a of its Himley Village development. This approval is part of Cala’s commitment to delivering up to 1,700 new homes within the larger NW Bicester eco-town project, which aims to create 6,000 homes. The latest permission complements the previously approved Reserved Matters application for the primary and secondary road infrastructure that will serve Cala’s portion of the development.

Cala’s approved plans will bring a variety of choice for house hunters, including a range of 2,3-,4-, and 5-bedroom open market homes, 1- and 2-bedroom affordable maisonettes, and 2,3-, and 4-bedroom affordable homes. The mix of options means there will be suitable homes for first-time buyers, families, and downsizers.

Forming part of the wider NW Bicester eco town, the design of the new homes will aim to meet the UK Government's Future Homes Standard by incorporating features such as timber frame, low-carbon heating, enhanced airtightness, and improved glazing. 

Matthew Jeal, Head of Planning at Cala Homes Cotswolds commented:

“We are delighted to have received approval for the first phase of housebuilding in this exciting development, and we’re proud to be part of the wider NW Bicester eco town project. Himley Village is designed to meet the highest standards in energy efficiency, carbon performance, and overall sustainability, creating a walkable, eco-friendly neighbourhood. With Phase 1, including the initial infrastructure and access, the development is really starting to come to life.

“Sustainability is at the core of this project, and we are committed to delivering homes that not only stand the test of time but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. This development reflects Cala’s dedication to creating lasting, sustainable homes and vibrant communities.

“We are pleased with Cherwell District Council’s approval of our Reserved Matters application and look forward to working with them on future phases to ensure delivery of a truly net-zero development.”

In support of the standards and principles set out for the eco town, sustainability measures at Cala’s development will also see every new home equipped with electric vehicle charging points, and air source heat pumps – low-carbon technology, helping residents reduce their carbon emissions. In addition, PV panels will be used on suitable homes whilst the development will also boast being all electric to ensure benefits from the future renewable energy and decarbonisation of the National Grid. Water efficiency will be ensured through fitting the development with low-flow green rate taps, showers, and toilets. 

Through Cala’s Urban Wildlife Strategy, important measures to support wildlife will also be incorporated into the fabric of all homes, including bird nesting features, specialist hedgehog fencing, bat boxes or bat roosting tiles and native tree planting.

It is expected that the build of the homes on Phase 2a will commence in November with the first homes expected to be occupied in early 2025.