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

West Oxfordshire District Council is taking the next step in shaping the future of the district, with an updated, ambitious Local Plan, which aims to deliver significant opportunities for the benefit of communities and the environment. 


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. 


Contact Information

West Oxfordshire District Council Communications Team

communications@westoxon.gov.uk


More Articles

August 21, 2025
We are building new slip roads at the A40/B4022 Shores Green junction to improve access to Witney, reduce congestion and provide new footpaths and crossings.
August 21, 2025
Residents across West Oxfordshire are being urged to check their voter registration details as this year’s Annual Canvass gets underway.
August 21, 2025
The District Council has been granted an extension of the Coronation Community Orchard Scheme to commemorate the coronation of King Charles III.
August 21, 2025
A huge 'thank you!' to everyone for such strong, positive participation with the draft Oxfordshire Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
August 21, 2025
The District Council has taken a significant step towards meeting its carbon neutral target by approving air source heat pumps at Windrush Leisure Centre.
August 21, 2025
West Oxfordshire has been named the UK’s top performing rural district for reducing carbon emissions and boosting climate resilience.
August 20, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council has been awarded government funding to help residents on a low-income make their homes more energy efficient.
August 20, 2025
West Oxfordshire District Council (WODC) has undertaken a series of ecological enhancements for both wildlife and visitors at the Woodgreen and Elmfield offices.
August 20, 2025
The innovative CAPZero project led by the Low Carbon Hub has completed it's first year of activities.
August 20, 2025
West Oxfordshire District Council (WODC) Executive held a meeting in Charlbury Community Centre as part of their "Executive on Tour" series.
Show More