![Cllr Andrew Coles; Deputy Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Lynda Atkins; WODC Youth Champion,India Mae Thompson; Leader of WODC, Cllr Andy Graham](https://cdn.prgloo.com/media/7d50fbdfec8a4bc8a6ac3b254f9068b8.jpg?width=968&height=1452)
Council celebrates opening of new community space and 50-year anniversary
On Wednesday 22 May, the Leader of the Council welcomed guests to celebrate the opening of the new space where Council meetings will be held and community events hosted, and to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the formation of District Councils.
Councillor Andy Graham, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council (WODC), said:
“What better way to celebrate such a significant milestone than by opening this fantastic new community space.
“It has been wonderful to welcome members of our community to join us to celebrate this occasion. On behalf of West Oxfordshire District Council, I would like to thank the Deputy Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Lynda Atkins, and WODC’s Youth Champion, India Mae Thompson, for sharing their inspiring words.
“So much has been achieved since WODC was formed 50 years ago. Welcoming back many of the individuals who have played a role in driving positive changes over the years has reminded us of just how far we’ve come. More importantly though, today also served as a reminder of the work that lies ahead and the duty we have to deliver the best possible services for our beloved district.”
In 1972, hundreds of new councils, including WODC, were formed under the Local Government Act. Since that time, the Oxfordshire councils have operated in a two-tier structure, with Oxfordshire County Council offering services across the county, and five district councils serving their individual areas. Since April, councils up and down the country have been celebrating the occasion as an opportunity to highlight the value they bring to their local areas.
Current and former members of the Council, representatives of local schools and organisations, and local media were invited to attend the celebration. The event was opened by the former Chair of the Council, Councillor Andrew Coles, followed by speeches from the Deputy Lieutenant and WODC’s Youth Champion, with closing remarks from Councillor Andy Graham.
The refurbishment of the old council chamber was completed in February and has since been used to host several of the Council’s meetings.
A benefit of the required renovation was the creation of a space which could be used by both the Council and community. The council is currently putting arrangements in place to facilitate this and aims to open it up for wider public use later in the year.