A PLAN which could shape the future of West Oxfordshire for the next 20 years has been formally submitted to the government.

West Oxfordshire District Council has put forward its draft Local Plan for independent examination by the Planning Inspectorate.

It follows a final six-week consultation which drew responses from 150 people.

Government planning inspector Mr Simon Emerson BSc DipTP MRTPI has been appointed and will determine whether or not the plan is ‘sound’ in light of the comments received and national planning policy.

Cllr Warwick Robinson, cabinet member for strategic planning and housing, said: “Reaching this point has involved a long and complex process and this has been necessary as the Local Plan provides the framework for how our district will develop in future years.

“I am confident our approach has been thorough, with consultation carried out at each stage and every detail investigated, including all the evidence provided to us.”

He added: “We have to thank the public for all their representations, contributions and proposals along the way. However, we recognise it will never be possible to produce a Plan that pleases everyone, but we believe that what is being put forward to the Inspector is the best for West Oxfordshire.”

The examination will be held later in the year at the district council’s Woodgreen offices in Witney and the hearing dates will be published on the council’s website in the near future.

More information, can be found at westoxon.gov.uk/localplan2031.