Public consultation opens on the future direction of West Oxfordshire’s Local Plan

The Local Plan is the Council’s key strategic document for managing development. It will influence how and where new homes, jobs, services, and infrastructure come forward in the years ahead, and how the district responds to major challenges including the climate emergency, housing affordability and nature recovery. 

This consultation, known as the ‘Preferred Policy Options’ stage, sets out the Council’s proposed direction, including a new vision for West Oxfordshire in 2041, updated objectives, and preferred policy approaches on housing, transport, the economy, climate, infrastructure, health and wellbeing, and more. 

Cllr Hugo Ashton, Executive Member for Planning, said: 

“This is a key moment in shaping a stronger, more ambitious Local Plan for West Oxfordshire. It’s not a draft plan yet, instead, it’s about the direction we’re taking and the choices we’re proposing to make. 

“We’ve listened to residents through two previous rounds of consultation, and now we’re setting out how we’ve responded. We’re asking for feedback again, on our thinking so far, so we can continue to improve the plan before we publish the full draft later this year. 

“Whether it’s truly affordable homes, improved infrastructure and transport, climate action, or the character of our towns and villages, these are decisions that will affect West Oxfordshire for years to come. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to get involved and have their say.” 

This stage of the consultation does not include details of specific individual development sites. Instead, it focuses on the overall strategy and direction of the plan – the preferred policy options. A further consultation specifically focused on potential future development locations will follow later in the year. 

Cllr Andy Graham, Leader of the Council, added: 

“We know from previous consultations that residents care deeply about the future of their communities, and this consultation is designed to give them real influence. By shaping the vision and policies now, we can make sure the next draft of the Local Plan genuinely reflects local needs, priorities and values.” 

The consultation will run from 26 June to 8 August and can be accessed online at: https://yourvoice.westoxon.gov.uk/en-GB/folders/your-plan-for-the-future  

The consultation platform provides a breakdown of each chapter of the Preferred Policy Options paper, with a chance to leave feedback throughout the document. Hard copies of the consultation paper will be made available Council offices. 

Public drop-in events will also be held in towns and villages across the district, as well as online sessions, giving residents the chance to speak with planning officers, ask questions and share their views. Details of these events are as follows: