Residents near Soho Farmhouse, a private members’ club situated on 100 acres in Oxfordshire, have expressed growing opposition to the site’s ongoing development. Since construction began in 2014, the club’s owners have submitted 123 planning applications, drawing criticism from the surrounding community.
Most recently, the owners have sought approval to install three "sustainable cabins" on the property. These cabins would be available for short-term rental or purchase at a premium price. However, the proposal has encountered resistance from local groups concerned about the impact on community facilities.
The Tew Centre, a nearby community resource currently facing financial difficulties, formally objected to the application. According to spokesperson Lucy Drinkwater, the centre has been forced to close its playground pending repairs, which require £42,000 in funding. In a letter to the local council, she highlighted the "cumulative impact of ongoing commercial development at Soho Farmhouse on the community infrastructure of Great Tew."
The letter urged the council to require Section 106 contributions from the developers if permission is granted. These contributions are financial agreements that obligate developers to support affordable housing or local amenities, helping to mitigate adverse effects on nearby communities.
Soho Farmhouse, often described as a luxury retreat for affluent members, has been a source of tension in the area due to its continual expansion and the perceived strain on local resources. The current dispute centers on balancing commercial development with the needs of longstanding community facilities.
Local authorities will consider the objections and the planning application as part of the ongoing review process.