Oxford City Council has submitted the Local Plan 2045 to the Planning Inspectorate for examination after councillors voted to adopt it at this week’s full council meeting (Monday 13 July).
The Local Plan 2045 is a strategic document that will underpin all planning decisions in Oxford.
It will help to shape how the city addresses its housing crisis, supports its economy, reduces carbon emissions, and supports the diverse communities and neighbourhoods. It aims to make the city more equal and more resilient.
It will do this by ensuring:
- 40% affordable housing in developments of 10 or more homes, prioritising social rent
- more flexibility and opportunities for neighbourhoods across the city
- major developments include more green features as well as biodiversity net gain
- all new buildings are net zero carbon in operation and are resilient to the effects of our changing climate
- affordable workspace strategies for key employment sites to encourage a diverse economy
- all large developments include Community Employment and Procurement Plans that promote local jobs and local businesses
Next Steps
Following the submission, the Planning Inspectorate will appoint an independent Planning Inspector to examine the soundness of the Local Plan 2045.
This will involve reviewing the evidence base, all the representations made to the Proposed Submission Draft (at Regulation 19 stage) and holding hearings sessions, which representors can request to take part in.
Once confirmed, details of the examination process will be advertised, made available online and sent to those who have asked to be notified.
The full Local Plan 2045 is available to view on the Council's website. The page will be updated when details of the examination process are ready.
Comment
“I’m pleased that councillors have once again agreed the Local Plan 2045, allowing us to submit it to the Planning Inspectorate for examination.
“The Local Plan 2045 will shape Oxford’s future, helping us tackle the housing crisis, support local jobs and businesses, reduce carbon emissions and create greener, more resilient neighbourhoods.
“Oxford is a unique city with significant opportunities and challenges. This plan provides a clear framework to help us meet those challenges while protecting and enhancing what makes Oxford such a special place to live, work and study.”
Councillor Anna Railton, Deputy Leader, and Cabinet Member for Planning and Zero Carbon Oxford
