The Overview and Scrutiny Committee of West Oxfordshire Council met on Thursday, 26 March 2026, to discuss the Woodford Way development project and the activities of the West Oxfordshire Community Safety Partnership. Key decisions included noting the progress on the Woodford Way project, which is progressing with Option 3 as the preferred development configuration, and acknowledging the report on the Community Safety Partnership's activities.

Woodford Way Update

The committee received an update on the Woodford Way development project, which aims to deliver much-needed affordable housing in Witney. The preferred option, Option 3, proposes 55 homes, comprising 20 maisonettes and 35 apartments, alongside 84 public parking spaces. This option was chosen for its balance of quality, scale, and ability to meet demand, while also aiming for a net-zero carbon approach. The project is reliant on funding from Homes England and engagement with Registered Providers. Concerns were raised regarding parking provision, the housing mix, and the timeline for public engagement, with a recommendation made to ensure more accurate and timely data is provided for future discussions.

Community Safety Partnership Update

The committee reviewed the activities of the West Oxfordshire Community Safety Partnership (WOCSP) for 2025/2026. The WOCSP, a statutory requirement under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, works to reduce crime and disorder, combat substance misuse, reduce re-offending, and prevent serious violence. Key priorities for the coming year include domestic abuse and violence against women and girls, anti-social behaviour, and support for vulnerable groups and young people. The report highlighted a significant reduction in the WOCSP's budget due to a decrease in Home Office grant funding, necessitating a review of all potential projects. The committee noted the ongoing work in areas such as rural crime, violence against women and girls, and the Safe Places scheme. Discussions also touched upon the upcoming abolition of Police and Crime Commissioners and the potential impact on existing initiatives.