David Wilson Homes wins appeal to build 230 homes near Twyford after Wokingham Council’s refusal due to urban sprawl concerns.
The housing plans started back in 2022. Wokingham Council refused the plans in June 2024, feeling the homes were too urban and would extend the village oddly.
The council worried about a new, isolated area and believed daily travel would be hard. One councillor walked to Twyford station, documenting that it took thirty minutes, with others agreeing that car use would increase.
The developers argued that the site was an ideal spot for train commuters. The houses will include four, three, and two-bedroom options, as well as flats with one or two beds. Forty percent of the homes will be affordable.
A planning consultant spoke about Twyford’s appeal, noting its sustainable location and highlighting the frequent services added by the Elizabeth Line, connecting to many more destinations.
The developer promised better walking and cycling paths to connect to Twyford Village. They also offered a new rugby ground to Rams RFC, whose current ground is near Sonning.
Locals filed 171 objections to the housing, worrying about sewage problems and their effect on Piggot School. The farmland now has polytunnels, per the images and the site will have one road entrance and exit onto the New Bath Road.
The government inspector approved the plans after the developer’s appeal. She said the farmland was suitable and sustainable for homes, ensuring that it would not be isolated from Twyford.
The inspector noted existing bus routes serve the site well, allowing future residents to easily access buses directly to Reading and High Wycombe.
She disagreed with the council’s “separation” claim, deeming it to be misleading. The inspector saw no major negative impacts, concluding that the benefits outweighed any concerns, and ultimately granting permission on February 5th.