Plans for new town a national security risk - MP

2 days ago

Stuart RustSouth of England

News image — Freddie van Mierlo claims the plans would contradict new government policy

Getty Images A wide shot looking down on Chalgrove Airfield, which has two long runways cutting across a large patch of grass. A few buildings are situated behind the runways and homes can be seen to the right. All of this is surrounded by vibrant green trees and countryside. — Freddie van Mierlo claims the plans would contradict new government policy

Plans to build a controversial 3,400-home new town could undermine national security, according to an MP.

Homes England wants to build the development at Chalgrove Airfield in south Oxfordshire with a planning application expected soon.

But Liberal Democrat MP for Henley and Thame Freddie van Mierlo said the project is "fundamentally incompatible" with the government's updated planning framework due to its impact on the UK's defence capability.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said national security remains its top priority.

Van Mierlo said the government's revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) places renewed emphasis on protecting business, defence, and security interests.

He claims the airfield plans would not meet the criteria of the updated policy, which is currently under public consultation until 10 March.

The site is home to military ejector seat maker Martin-Baker Aircraft Company, whose work would be affected by a proposed reduction in runways.

Van Mierlo said the airfield also supports the work of the NHS, RAF Benson, Thames Valley Air Ambulance and Thames Valley Police.

He said: "The Government's updated NPPF makes clear commitments to protecting defence capability, public safety, and established business operations.

"Yet at Chalgrove Airfield, those commitments appear to have been overlooked. The proposed development cannot be integrated effectively with the airfield's current and critical functions.

"Proceeding would directly contradict the principles set out in the government's own planning framework and would risk serious consequences for national security and emergency services."

The MP has written to the government for urgent clarification on the future of the project in light of the change.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: "National security remains this government's top priority.

"Our proposals to reform national planning policy are under consultation and the existing framework currently remains in place. We are pulling every lever we have to fix the housing crisis and deliver the 1.5 million homes this country desperately needs."

The ministry would not provide comment on individual planning cases.

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