An area of change in Oxford’s Local Plan
The 2016-2036 Local Plan opens a new window/tab, Policy AOC1, designated the ‘Area of Change’ and sets out principles for high-density urban living that makes efficient use of land, maintains a vibrant mix of uses and maximises the area’s contribution to Oxford’s knowledge economy.
Policy SP1 supports mixed use development across the West End, aiming to deliver at least 734 homes across five of the sites. In addition, Policy SP2 allocates Osney Mead Industrial Estate for a mixed use development, including employment and academic uses, as well as affordable housing, employer-linked affordable housing, open market housing, and student accommodation.
The forthcoming Local Plan to 2040 opens a new window/tab is now leading a fresh call for sites with landowners, and looks again at how we protect the things that make Oxford special.
A Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) for the West End and Osney Mead
Sets out a framework to support the West End to achieve its regenerative potential and a series of new mixed-use neighbourhoods that complement existing uses and established communities. The SPD co-ordinates public realm improvements, infrastructure and design, as sites are brought forward across the area over time and in the context of the need to deliver a zero carbon Oxford and tackle the climate emergency.
Local Industrial Strategy, 2020
Builds on Oxfordshire’s globally-renowned status to position the county as one of the top-three global innovation ecosystems, highlighting our world-leading science and technology cluster and pioneering activity for the UK, through emerging transformative technologies and sectors. Delivering the projects contained within will collectively lever over £2.6bn in domestic and foreign private sector investment. The strategy emphasises The West End’s potential as a new district for business growth and innovation, as an extension of Oxford’s city centre and a flagship, connected gateway into the county’s innovation ecosystem.
Oxford’s Economic Strategy
Underpins the West End as one of the key opportunities to deliver new employment space and homes, providing greater economic resilience and supporting existing businesses and cultural & leisure attractions. Oxford aims to boost domestic and international inward investment from socially responsible and purposeful businesses in target sectors including Health and Life Sciences, Technology and Digital, Green and Zero Carbon technology, and Creative Production. It sets out how the West End Strategic Board will align, coordinate and expedite delivery of the development and foster Zero Carbon and Inclusive Growth. The City Council will work with landowners to deliver employment and skills plans. New uses will be accelerated by key infrastructure, including the proposed transformation of Oxford station into a national rail hub and excellent public realm.