Plans for a new, modern community centre in the heart of Blackbird Leys were given the go-ahead by Oxford City Council’s planning committee on Tuesday 20 May, paving the way for construction to begin.
The decision marks a major milestone in the regeneration of Blackbird Leys, which is being delivered by Peabody in partnership with Oxford City Council. The new centre will sit at the heart of a revitalised District Centre, alongside new affordable homes, new shops, green spaces, and improved roads and cycle routes.
The purpose-built community centre will provide flexible, welcoming spaces for local residents and groups, with three large halls, a range of office spaces, and comfortable places for people to meet and relax. It is expected to host up to 800 visitors and offer something for everyone - from advice and support services to fun activities, celebrations, and community events.
The building will be complemented by a new public square, including play areas for children and young people, a rain garden, accessible play equipment, and public art, with opportunities for local people to help create the final artwork.
The community centre has been shaped by residents from the outset, through extensive engagement and local events, including exhibitions, walkabouts and design review sessions.
The new community centre will be owned and operated by Oxford City Council.
Simon Barry, Regional Managing Director, Development at Peabody, said: “This is really good news for Blackbird Leys. Local people have told us how much they want a community space that’s welcoming, flexible and built around their needs and now we can get started on making that happen.
“We’re grateful to everyone who’s taken the time to share their views along the way, and we’ll continue working closely with the community as we move into the next phase.”
Councillor Linda Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing at Oxford City Council, said:
“This is a huge step forward for Blackbird Leys. The new community centre will be a true home for community life – a vibrant, welcoming, inclusive space where residents can come to connect. It’s been shaped by local voices every step of the way and will sit right at the heart of a regenerated District Centre that offers real opportunities for the community, including much-needed homes, shops and outdoor space. We are so proud to be delivering this vibrant new development and I’m excited to see the next steps take shape.”
This decision follows the planning committee’s earlier approval of the overall regeneration application in 2023.
The Blackbird Leys regeneration is being delivered in two phases and will bring 294 new homes across Knights Road and the District Centre, along with significant investment in local infrastructure and public spaces.
Construction of the first new homes is already well underway, with the first residents expected to move in from this summer.
Construction of the community centre is expected to start later this year, with the building expected to be ready for the interior to be fitted in 2027.
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