Paragraph 3.1 sets out the housing requirement for the Borough across the plan period. Consideration needs to be given to the potential uplift in housing numbers because of "The Oxford-Cambridge Arc". It is acknowledged in Paragraph 1.7 that it is likely that there will be a significantly higher demand for homes within the Arc in response economic growth. The housing requirement figure of 1,275 dwellings should be a minimum requirement to prepare for the likely uplift in housing requirement as a result of the Arc.

The Draft Sustainability Appraisal (dated June 2021) that supports the consultation document tests a higher growth option of a 10% uplift than the objectively assessment need of 12,500 homes as identified in the Local Housing Needs Assessment. In appraising the high growth option, paragraph 8.4 of the SA states that it was likely to perform more positively in relation to strong and balanced economy, promoting the vitality and viability of town centres and promoting good quality housing.

The Council’s decision to not pursue a higher growth strategy has not been adequately justified and it fails to recognise the benefits associated with a high growth option for both housing provision and economic growth. The Council has not investigated the potential for a growth scenario that would provide a better balance between the identified socio-economic benefits and potential environmental effects. The locally assessed housing need should take proper account of significant level of job that is expected because of the Arc.