South Oxfordshire District Council (SODC) is setting a new council plan for the next four years and is encouraging everyone within the district to join in the conversation ‘The Way Ahead’.
The Council has set out its initial ideas on what direction to take and the aim is now to open up a two-way conversation and find out what residents, businesses, community groups and organisations think. The feedback will contribute to the development of a new draft council plan for 2024-28.
‘The Way Ahead’ outlines five key themes steering the council’s existing and aspirational plans within South Oxfordshire, covering:
- Action on climate change and nature recovery;
- Inclusion, accessibility and accountability;
- Thriving and healthy communities;
- Homes and infrastructure that meet local need;
- Financial stability and innovative transformation.
A council plan (sometimes called a strategic or corporate plan) seeks to establish a vision, ambitions and priorities for the council. SODC currently has a corporate plan 2020-24. As this is the current corporate plan’s final year, the council now needs to set a direction for the next four years.
The council also recently completed a six-week Joint Local Plan (JLP) Preferred Options consultation with Vale of White Horse District Council. The JLP covers new planning policies that help address the climate emergency, protect and restore nature, and meet the needs of residents. The JLP forms a part of how the council plan priorities will be delivered.
To find out more and take part, visit: www.southoxon.gov.uk/TheWayAhead
The conversation runs until Tuesday 14th May.