A DEVELOPER has said it is still willing to discuss concerns about a housing development in the village where ITV period drama Downton Abbey films outdoor scenes.

Richborough Estates has submitted a planning application for up to 160 houses on land in New Road, Bampton.

But Bampton Medical Practice and local residents fear for the future of the village and insist the GP surgery cannot cater for hundreds more people.

The developers said it appreciated the concerns of villagers and, in response to a consultation, had ensured hedges on the north and east of the site will be preserved.

It is now in discussion with Bampton Primary School over plans to pay for a new classroom at the school.

Danny Parkinson-Witte, of Richborough Estates, said: “Richborough Estates has tried to engage with the surgery to discuss the concern it has raised about accommodating additional patients.

“Richborough Estates remains entirely willing to meet the practice manager and the doctors to discuss their concerns.

“We are also committed to bolstering the local bus service in order to allow people to visit the GP Practice in Carterton.”

Previously, practice manager Sue Gooding said: “It would have a significant impact. We could not accommodate that number of extra patients.”

The proposal will be considered by councillors in January.

A second application by Gladman Developments for 127 homes at land off Aston Road, Bampton, is recommended for refusal at today’s West Oxfordshire Distrcit Council lowlands planning sub-comittee meeting.