Neighbourhood planning is a statutory framework, introduced in the Localism Act 2011, that gives communities direct power to develop a shared vision for their neighbourhood and shape the development and growth of their local area.
It provides communities with a set of tools that gives them the opportunity to, should they wish, influence the type, design, location and mix of new development.
Neighbourhood planning tools
Neighbourhood plans
Neighbourhood plans are legally binding, community‑written planning documents that set local land‑use policies and guide development within a designated neighbourhood area. They are prepared by designated neighbourhood forums and parish councils.
Neighbourhood Development Orders
Neighbourhood Development Orders grant planning permission for specified types of development and use class in a designated neighbourhood area, often in line with neighbourhood plans. They are prepared by designated neighbourhood forums and parish councils.
The role of the City Council
As the local planning authority, the City Council has a legal duty to support parish councils and neighbourhood forums with respect to neighbourhood planning matters. The City Council will:
- publish neighbourhood area and forum applications
- designate neighbourhood areas and forums
- provide ‘technical advice and support’ to communities as they prepare neighbourhood plans or development orders
- check the plan or development order against the legislation and regulations
- publish submitted plan proposals for consultation
- appoint an examiner in agreement with the neighbourhood forum or parish Council
- arrange an independent examination
- arrange and carry out a referendum on the plan after examination
- adopt the plan or order if it passes at referendum
This list is not exhaustive and does not include only mandatory requirements.
View our guidance on preparing Neighbourood Plans.
Neighbourhood Planning areas
View Interactive Map of Neighbourhood Planning Areas in Oxford.
