M40 mega-warehouse decision expected after public inquiry ends

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 31 Oct, 13:37 · Archive

A Planning Inspector will decide on warehouse schemes at Baynards Green after a public inquiry concluded in October 2026.

A Planning Inspector will soon rule on warehouse schemes at Baynards Green following a public inquiry that ran from 22 September to 29 October 2026, with hearings held in Banbury and Bicester. The Tritax Symmetry development proposes up to 300,000 square metres (around 1.7 million square feet) of logistics warehousing and related infrastructure on land east of Baynards Green Farm. Two other warehouse proposals from Albion Land were also part of the inquiry.

Planning officers initially recommended the Tritax scheme for approval, subject to conditions and a legal agreement. However, Cherwell District Council's planning committee rejected the application in January 2026, leading the developers to appeal. The council later told the Planning Inspectorate it would not present evidence to defend its refusal, citing a lack of necessary evidence to support its case.

Opposition to the development was led by Stoke Lyne Parish Council and the Tusmore Park Estate, who participated in the inquiry as Rule 6 parties. With proceedings now concluded, the applications await the Planning Inspector's decision. No date has been set, but inspector decisions following major inquiries are typically issued several weeks or months after the inquiry ends.

How it is being reported

• Decision expected soon on M40 mega-warehouses after court battleA decision is expected soon on plans for mega-warehouses off the M40 after a lengthy public inquiry.Oxford Mail · 31 Oct, 13:00
• Decision expected soon on M40 mega-warehouses after court battleA decision is expected soon on plans for mega-warehouses off the M40 after a lengthy public inquiry.Oxfordshire Guardian · 31 Oct, 13:00

In this story: Tritax Symmetry · Cherwell District Council · Baynards Green · Stoke Lyne Parish Council · Tusmore Park Estate

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