Council secures approval for Community Infrastructure Levy to help deliver vital infrastructure across West Oxfordshire
West Oxfordshire District Council has secured approval for its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Charging Schedule, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to ensure that new development is supported by the infrastructure communities need to thrive.
Following a public hearing held on Tuesday 10 June 2025, the final report from the independent examiner has approved the Council’s Draft Charging Schedule, subject to one modification: a reduction in the proposed rate for larger residential developments of 250 or more homes, from £225 per square metre to £150 per square metre (excluding strategic development areas).
CIL is a proposed fixed charge on certain types of new development—including new homes and extensions - calculated based on the size of the proposed development. When implemented, it will work alongside existing Section 106 (S106) planning obligations to help fund the key infrastructure required to support development across the district, such as roads, schools, green spaces and community facilities.
Cllr Hugo Ashton, Executive Member for Planning, said:
“Securing approval for our Community Infrastructure Levy Charging Schedule is a major step forward in our work to ensure that infrastructure keeps pace with development in West Oxfordshire.
“The Community Infrastructure Levy will give us more flexibility to secure funding for strategic infrastructure improvements such as roads, education, green spaces and community facilities that our residents rely on. A proportion of the money received through CIL will also be passed directly to the local Town or Parish Council where the development is taking place so that decisions on how the money is spent are locally focused.”
The Charging Schedule was developed in 2024 and underwent an eight-week public consultation during August and September. It was formally submitted for Examination in March 2025, with the public hearing taking place in June.
With the Examiner’s final report now received, the Council will move to formally adopt the schedule, with implementation to follow in due course. Once in place, CIL will enhance the Council’s ability to secure and deliver the infrastructure needed to support sustainable growth across the district.
Contact Information
West Oxfordshire District Council Communications Team
Notes to editors
- The examination was carried out by Mr. Holland BA (Hons) DipTP MRTPI ARCIS from Intelligent Plans and Examination (IPE) and discussions at the hearing session were led by him.
- The recording of the hearing session can be found here.
- Further information on the Community Infrastructure Levy Charging Schedule Examination can be found on the Council’s website.