West Oxfordshire’s new Local Plan to make significant improvements to previous plan

Councillor Hugo Ashton, Executive Member for Planning, said: “This new Local Plan is all about creating a stronger, greener, and more connected West Oxfordshire. We have listened carefully to residents and stakeholders, and their feedback has helped shape this plan.  

“The new plan will make significant improvements on the last one. We will be doing far more to deliver more affordable homes, tackle the climate and ecological emergencies, invest in infrastructure, help support people's health and improve public transport.  

“What does this mean for residents – it means more affordable housing that is accessible to a wider range of people, homes that are more energy efficient and cheaper to run, better travel through improved roads and rail, maintaining our beautiful countryside and so much more. 

“This will truly be a plan for a better future and I look forward to engaging with residents again in May.” 

The Local Plan 2041 will set out how West Oxfordshire will develop over the next two decades, replacing the current plan adopted in 2018. It will address key issues such as infrastructure, climate change, housing, and the local economy, ensuring that growth is well-planned and sustainable. 

A major focus of the plan is tackling climate change by requiring net-zero carbon development and supporting green initiatives such as nature recovery, sustainable transport, and flood management. The plan also prioritises investment in infrastructure, including transport improvements, healthcare, and education, to support new and existing communities. 

The Council has already engaged extensively with residents, businesses, and stakeholders, with two rounds of public consultation generating strong support for policies on climate action, biodiversity, and sustainable development. The next phase, the ‘preferred options’ consultation, will allow residents to give their views on the emerging proposals. 

Following this consultation, the Council will refine the plan and publish a draft version for further public feedback before it is submitted for independent examination. The final Local Plan 2041 is expected to be adopted in 2026. 

Full details on the consultation will be published on the Council’s website in May.