Agenda item

To receive notification of and consider a response to the consolation of the North Leigh Parish Council Neighbourhood Plan. (Minute FC208 13.04.2026 Refers)

The Plan along with its supporting documents which can be found at Neighbourhood Plan Pre-Submission Consultation 2026 – North Leigh Parish.

The Committee received and considered the North Leigh Neighbourhood Development Plan proposal.

Resolved:

That, the following response be submitted on behalf of the Town Council,

Witney Town Council welcomes the preparation of the North Leigh Neighbourhood Plan and recognises the considerable effort that has gone into its development. The Plan presents a clear and ambitious vision for the area, and the Council commends all those involved.

However, the Town Council does have some concerns about the potential impact of future development on Witney, particularly in terms of infrastructure. As North Leigh’s principal service centre, Witney already faces pressure on key services. It is therefore important that any additional development, especially on the edges of existing settlements, considers the cumulative impact on transport, healthcare, education, and other essential services relied upon by residents of both communities.

The Council also notes that local government structures are expected to change significantly in the coming years, with Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) anticipated in 2027–28, alongside possible governance reviews. These changes may affect how services are delivered and how strategic planning is coordinated. As such, it is important that the Neighbourhood Plan remains flexible enough to adapt to this evolving landscape.

Overall, Witney Town Council is supportive of the North Leigh Neighbourhood Plan and its objectives. This support is, however, subject to the need for careful consideration of cross-boundary impacts, particularly in relation to infrastructure and service provision, and for continued dialogue to ensure alignment with wider strategic planning priorities.