Call for views on new Cherwell Local Plan

People can now submit comments on a vision for sustainable development in north Oxfordshire.

Published: Thursday, 19th December 2024

local plan banner

Cherwell District Council has launched a consultation on its Proposed Local Plan 2042. It runs for eight weeks from today, Thursday, 19 December, until Friday, 14 February 2025.

When finalised, the Plan will set out where new housing and infrastructure should be delivered in the years through to 2042. It also contains policies to help the district meet the challenge of climate change, maintain a thriving economy, and create healthy communities.

Councillor Jean Conway, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Development Management, said: “Our aim is to protect Cherwell’s heritage and natural landscapes in the years to come while meeting our housing and other needs. We also aim to play a positive role in climate action. How and where we deliver the housing and other development that our residents need is therefore critical, and our new Local Plan sets out just how we will do that up until the year 2042.

“The Plan includes vital policies on everything from biodiversity to tourism, regenerating our town centres and creating jobs to help our economy thrive and our residents prosper. We invite residents to take part and help us move forward with this positive vision for the future of their area.”

Known as a Regulation 19 consultation, it is the final formal stage before the council submits the Plan to a government-appointed planning inspector for independent examination.

The Plan is available for consultation online at cherwell.citizenspace.com

Visit the consultation

People can also attend consultation events and meet the planning policy team as follows:

  • Kidlington Exeter Hall, OX5 1AB, on Monday, 20 January, 3pm-7pm 
  • Bicester Littlebury Hotel, OX26 6DR, on Friday, 24 January, 3pm-7pm 
  • Woodstock Community Centre, OX20 1PB, on Tuesday, 28 January, 2pm-5.15pm 
  • Lock 29, Castle Quay, Banbury, OX16 5UN, on Saturday, 8 February, 11am-3pm 

All representations the council receives will be sent to the Planning Inspector when the Plan is examined.

The council is launching the consultation before Christmas but extending the statutory consultation period by two weeks.


Get the latest news direct to your inbox

Sign up for Cherwell Link