Save our valued landscape in Kidmore End Parish

Aim

Help Kidmore End Parish Council secure expert legal counsel to defend our cherished parish landscape at the upcoming public inquiry

Help Protect Kidmore End Parish from 70 More Houses

In 2025, South Oxfordshire District Council refused a proposal for 70 additional houses on land at the former Reading Golf Club within Kidmore End Parish. This is in addition to the 223 houses already being built on the former golf course site in Reading.

The proposal conflicts with our Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) and the adopted planning strategy for South Oxfordshire.

The developer has now appealed that decision, triggering a four-day public inquiry.

If this appeal succeeds:

• The integrity of our democratically adopted Neighbourhood Development Plan would be undermined.
• A dangerous precedent could be set for further speculative development on open countryside along the Reading boundary.
• The rural separation between Kidmore End and urban Reading would be significantly reduced.
• Traffic levels, road safety risks, and pressure on local services would increase.
• Protected trees, valued landscape and countryside character would be harmed.

We believe we have a strong case. Our NDP was independently examined and supported through referendum. The Parish Council Planning Sub-Group is leading the preparation of our case, supported by highly experienced and well-qualified parish residents who are generously volunteering their time and expertise.

However, to defend the Parish effectively at a formal public inquiry, Kidmore End Parish Council must engage a professional planning barrister. The cost of securing appropriate legal representation is estimated at £20,000.

The developer has substantial legal and financial resources. We must ensure that our community’s case is presented with equal strength and professional representation.

We are therefore asking for your support to help us reach our £20,000 target.

Any funds raised above this amount will be put towards the refurbishment of the well head structure of Kidmore End well.

If we do not act now, the consequences for the character, landscape and future of Kidmore End Parish could be long-term and irreversible.

Please support our fundraising effort and help protect our Parish.

This project successfully funded on 28th May 2026