WEST Oxfordshire District Council has formally submitted its draft Local Plan to government for independent examination by the planning inspectorate.

Responses were received from around 150 individuals and organisations during the final 6-week consultation stage which was held between March and May.

The comments received have been submitted for consideration together with the draft Local Plan and a range of supporting documents.

Planning Inspector Simon Emerson has been appointed and will determine whether or not the plan is “sound” in light of the representations received and national policy.

The examination will be held later in the year at the district council’s Woodgreen offices in Witney and the hearing dates, and any other relevant information, will be published on the council’s website as soon as possible.

Further information on the process and copies of the documents that have been submitted are available at westoxon.gov.uk/localplan2031

Councillor 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 that our approach has been thorough with consultation carried out at each stage and every detail investigated, including all the evidence provided to us.

“We have a lot 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.”