The Planning & Regulation Committee met on Monday 13 April 2026 to discuss an application for the determination of conditions for planning permission at Land at Thrupp Farm, Radley, Abingdon. The committee ultimately decided to refer the application to the Secretary of State for determination due to legal complexities surrounding the existing planning permissions.

Land at Thrupp Farm, Radley, Abingdon

The committee considered an application concerning the conditions for planning permission at Land at Thrupp Farm, Radley, Abingdon. This application relates to the determination of conditions for existing planning permissions, numbers DD1 and DD2, for mineral extraction.

Several individuals addressed the committee. Roger Thomas raised concerns about the validity of the application, suggesting that the permission may have lapsed in 2016. Andrew Coker, a local resident, highlighted the national importance of such applications and the potential long-term impact on residents if not resolved promptly. Craig Woolhouse, representing Radley Lakes Trust, spoke in favour of some proposed conditions but argued for stronger mitigation measures to address habitat loss, particularly in Area 'C'. Councillor Smith sought clarification on the proportion of gravel extraction in Area 'C', with Mr Woolhouse indicating it was understood to be 50% of the total site. Councillor Gawrysiak inquired about potential mitigation strategies, which Mr Woolhouse suggested could include shallower extraction areas and the creation of islands to enhance biodiversity.

Richard Dudding requested that the conditions be amended to specify the land to which each applies and to ensure vigorous restoration of the northwest area. David Tannahill, Chair of Radley Parish Council, reiterated the view that the application had ceased to have effect in 2016 and called for a definitive deadline for the restoration of Curtis Yard industrial estate.

The applicant, James Lodge, stated that the application was about determining reasonable and lawful conditions for a permitted site, aiming to complement and enhance the Radley Lakes site. He confirmed that Area 'C' would only be worked if detailed mitigation and restoration plans were agreed. Nick Dunn, the applicant's agent, noted that concerns had been addressed in the environmental statement and highlighted benefits such as grassland areas and wildlife boxes. He requested approval of the officer recommendations, with an exception for the condition relating to the avoidance of grassland loss. Dr James Etienne spoke about the archaeological and scientific importance of the site, suggesting that further fossil discoveries could be made.

Following legal advice taken in private session, the committee debated the national importance of the application and the legal ambiguities surrounding it. Councillor Smith enquired about ongoing site monitoring, and officers confirmed that monitoring would continue regardless of the decision to refer the application.

The committee unanimously resolved to:

• Refer the application to the Secretary of State to consider calling it in for their own determination, given the absence of clear legal precedent on the effect of Schedule 14 paragraph 7 of the Environment Act 1995 and the identified adverse effects of habitat loss.
• Should the Secretary of State decline to call the application in, authorise the Director of Economy and Place to consider how to proceed with the determination of the application, including the conditions set out in Annex 4, and to provide a further report to the committee for their decision.

This decision was seconded by Councillor McLauchlan.