Cotswold District Council has published proposals that would see up to 17,918 homes brought forward across the district by 2043 as part of a new Local Plan intended to meet government housing targets.
Big sites earmarked across the district
The council has flagged 10 so-called strategic sites — developments of more than 350 homes — as the main locations for the bulk of growth. Among the towns and villages named are Moreton-in-Marsh, Mickleton, Siddington, Cirencester, Driffield and Fairford. Some of those sites are proposed to include community facilities such as schools, green spaces and local centres, and provision for Gypsy and Traveller pitches.
"The proposed Local Plan will 'protect the landscapes, heritage and character' of the Cotswolds,"
That comment comes from the council leader as the authority seeks to balance housing need with protection of the area's recognised landscapes. While about 80% of the district lies within the Cotswold National Landscape, the council says roughly 95% of the suggested development would fall outside that designated area.
Where the homes could go
More than 11,000 homes could be delivered across the 10 strategic sites. The largest single allocation is for Moreton-in-Marsh.
| Site | Potential homes |
|---|---|
| Moreton-in-Marsh | 2,217 |
| Down Ampney | 1,658 |
| Preston | 1,368 |
| Mickleton | 1,238 |
| Fairford | 1,141 |
| New settlement south of Driffield | 1,090 (with potential for further long-term growth) |
| Kemble | 1,020 |
| Cirencester – east of Kingshill Lane | 613 |
| Cirencester – south of The Steadings | 585 (with potential for further long-term growth) |
| Siddington | 372 |
Next steps and how residents can have their say
Subject to formal approval by councillors, the council intends to run a public consultation lasting six weeks from 24 August to 5 October 2025. That exercise will give residents the chance to comment on the proposed site choices and the wider strategy in the draft Local Plan.
- More than 11,000 homes are concentrated on 10 strategic sites.
- Smaller allocations of around 350+ homes are also being considered at several villages.
- An initial delivery target of 420 homes by 2031 is included in the timetable.
The council emphasises the plan has been shaped with aims to increase the supply of affordable and smaller homes while avoiding development within the Cotswold National Landscape where possible. Some sites note scope for additional growth beyond the 2043 plan period.
Local people attending the consultation will want to look at transport, education and other infrastructure implications for their communities, as large-scale housing allocations typically require supporting services and road improvements. The draft plan’s proposals for on-site schools and green space are intended to address some of those needs, although final decisions will be subject to public and statutory feedback and the council’s subsequent approval process.
Further details, including full maps of the sites and opportunities to respond, should be available from the council once the consultation is formally launched.
