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Weekly updates
Oxfordshire Considers Thames Valley Devolution Deal & Health Priorities
This week in Oxfordshire:
Oxfordshire Considers Joining Thames Valley Devolution Deal
Oxfordshire County Council is weighing the potential benefits of joining a devolution deal with the wider Thames Valley region[^4]. The Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee met to discuss a proposal for a Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA)[^3], a move that could bring increased powers and funding to the area.
- Why it matters: Devolution[^2] could give Oxfordshire more control over key issues like transport, housing, and economic development. However, it also raises questions about local accountability and the potential impact on existing council structures.
- The Proposal: The council is considering submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the government for a Thames Valley MSA. This would involve closer collaboration with other local authorities in the region and the creation of a new mayoral structure.
- Potential Benefits: Supporters of the MSA argue that it could unlock additional funding and provide a stronger voice for the Thames Valley on the national stage. They also point to the potential for improved regional planning and coordination.
- Concerns: Critics worry about the concentration of power in a mayoral figure and the potential for decisions to be made without sufficient local input. There are also concerns about the impact on existing council services and the potential for increased bureaucracy.
- Next Steps: The committee was asked to provide its views on whether the cabinet should approve the decision that Oxfordshire submit an Expression of Interest to the government for a Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA). The cabinet is expected to make a final decision on the EOI in the coming weeks.
Public Health Performance Under Scrutiny
The Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee also examined the council's performance in key public health areas. Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee The Business Management Monitoring Report (BMMR) revealed some areas of concern, particularly in relation to new birth visits.
- Why it matters: Effective public health services are essential for protecting the health and wellbeing of Oxfordshire residents. Shortfalls in key areas could have a significant impact on vulnerable groups.
- Key Findings: The BMMR highlighted that the percentage of births that have received a face-to-face New Birth Visit by the age of 12 months old was rated as Amber.
- The Goal: The committee was asked to review performance, assess progress against strategic priorities, and hold decision makers accountable for effective service delivery and resource use, with a focused look at public health.
Parking Permit System Faces Scrutiny
The council's digital parking permit system came under the microscope at the Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee. Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee While the system has been in operation for several years, concerns remain about its accessibility and fairness.
- Why it matters: A well-functioning parking permit system is essential for managing traffic and ensuring that residents have access to parking in their local areas. Problems with the system can lead to frustration and inconvenience for residents.
- Key Data: The committee reviewed data on parking permit appeals, which showed that a significant number of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs)[^5] are cancelled due to visitor permit issues.
- Areas for Improvement: The committee discussed software considerations, digital inclusivity, protection of two-hour bays for short visits, and contractual arrangements.
Health Board Focuses on Homelessness and Healthy Homes
The Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board addressed the critical issues of homelessness and housing as key determinants of health. Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board The board considered strategies to prevent homelessness and improve housing conditions for vulnerable residents.
- Why it matters: Homelessness and poor housing can have a devastating impact on physical and mental health. Addressing these issues is essential for reducing health inequalities and improving overall wellbeing.
- Healthy Homes Priority: The board considered a framework for monitoring and delivering the Healthy Homes priority within Oxfordshire's Health and Wellbeing Strategy. This includes ambitions for more healthy, safe, and secure homes; more affordable homes; more suitable homes for specific groups; and reducing homelessness.
- Homelessness Prevention: The board received an update from the Prevention of Homelessness Directors Group (PHDG), which is focused on agreeing the future of the Countywide Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy, improving collaboration between statutory services, addressing affordable housing supply challenges, exploring further joined up commissioning of Mental Health and Adult Homeless Pathways, and the transformation of the Oxfordshire Homelessness Alliance.
- Community Insight: The board reviewed a Community Insight Profile for Bicester West, which highlighted issues such as crime and anti-social behaviour, social isolation, and difficulties accessing healthcare and affordable food.
Other Matters
- The Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee also received a report on the FixMyStreet platform, which allows residents to report issues such as potholes and broken streetlights. Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee The committee was told that since 1 January 2025, the council has received over 37,000 enquiries via Fix My Street, and that nearly 41,000 highway defects have been identified and actioned, with approximately 25% originating from Fix My Street reports.
- The Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board received annual reports from the Oxfordshire Safeguarding Adults Board (OSAB) and the Oxfordshire Safeguarding Children Board (OSCB). Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board
- The Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board received a report from Healthwatch Oxfordshire on patient views and experiences of Oxfordshire health and care services. Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board
Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:
- Delegated Decisions by Leader of the Council on Tuesday 16 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Leader of the Council
- Cabinet on Tuesday 16 December 2025. Cabinet
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Resources and Deputy Leader on Tuesday 16 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Resources and Deputy Leader
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Adults on Tuesday 16 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Adults
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People on Tuesday 16 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
- Cabinet on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Cabinet
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management on Thursday 11 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action on Thursday 11 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation on Friday 12 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation
- Pension Fund Committee on Friday 12 December 2025. Pension Fund Committee
- Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee)
Quarry Expansion Sparks Debate, Finances Scrutinized in Oxfordshire
This week in Oxfordshire:
Quarry Expansion Divides Community Over Environmental Impact
The Planning & Regulation Committee convened to discuss a planning application for land at Wroxton Fields Quarry that has stirred significant local concern. Planning & Regulation Committee The application, submitted by Earthline Ltd, sought permission for further mineral extraction, importation of inert material for restoration, a revised restoration scheme, and an aggregate recycling facility.
- Why it matters: The decision on this application will directly impact the environment, local traffic, and the quality of life for residents in nearby Wroxton village. The debate highlights the tension between the need for mineral resources and the desire to protect the local environment.
- The Proposal: Earthline Ltd sought permission to extract minerals from additional areas within the existing quarry, import approximately 750,000m3 of inert infill material to restore Phases 5 and 6 to original ground levels, and operate an aggregate recycling facility.
- Community Concerns: A total of 72 third-party representations were received, all objecting or expressing concerns. The main issues raised included the proximity of the Wroxton Village School and residential development, increased traffic, noise, dust, and other pollution and health risks.
- Planning Officer's Recommendation: Despite the concerns, the Planning Development Manager recommended approval, stating that the mineral provided by the application would assist in maintaining Oxfordshire's landbank and a steady supply of mineral, and that the need must be given great weight in the planning balance, as set out in NPPF paragraph 224.
- Potential Outcomes: The committee was scheduled to decide whether to grant planning permission, balancing the economic benefits of mineral extraction with the environmental and social impacts on the local community.
Council Scrutinizes Finances Amidst Auditor Concerns
The Audit & Governance Committee met to review the council's financial management and governance practices. Audit & Governance Committee Key items on the agenda included the Statement of Accounts 2024/25, treasury management, and anti-fraud measures.
- Why it matters: This committee's oversight is crucial for ensuring the responsible use of public funds and maintaining public trust in the council's financial management.
- Statement of Accounts: The committee was asked to consider and approve the Statement of Accounts 2024/25, prepared in accordance with the CIPFA code. The report pack stated that auditors are expected to issue a disclaimed opinion, with a possibility of a qualified opinion, but that no material misstatements have been identified.
- Treasury Management: The committee received the Treasury Management Mid-Term Review 2025/26, which showed that the council's outstanding debt totalled £270m as of 30 September 2025. The council achieved an average in-house return of 4.60% on average cash balances of £447.966m, producing gross interest receivable of £9.896m.
- Anti-Fraud Measures: The committee considered the revised Anti-Fraud and Corruption Strategy, which is subject to review every two years.
- Whistleblowing: The committee was presented with the Annual Report on Whistleblowing 2024/25, noting that training on Whistleblowing is currently being rolled out within the organisation.
- Potential Outcomes: The committee's decisions will influence the council's financial strategies and governance practices, with implications for service delivery and public accountability.
Health Board Tackles Tobacco, Travel, and Cost of Living
The Health Improvement Partnership Board convened to address key public health challenges facing Oxfordshire. Health Improvement Partnership Board Discussions focused on tobacco control, active travel, and the cost of living crisis.
- Why it matters: The board's work directly impacts the health and wellbeing of Oxfordshire residents, particularly those most vulnerable to health inequalities.
- Tobacco Control: The board was scheduled to discuss the Oxfordshire Tobacco Control Alliance (OTCA) Strategy 2026-2030, aiming to reduce smoking prevalence and address health inequalities.
- Active Travel: The board received an update on strategic developments for active travel, and on the Healthy Place Shaping (HPS) Grants delivering active travel initiatives across the City and District Councils.
- Cost of Living: The board was scheduled to note the update on the Cost of Living programme and comment on the outline proposals for the new three-year programme from 2026/27 onwards. Oxfordshire's HSF allocation for 2025/26 is £5.92 million, a reduction from £6.7 million in 2024/25.
- Potential Outcomes: The board's decisions will shape public health initiatives and resource allocation, with the goal of improving health outcomes and reducing inequalities across Oxfordshire.
Other Matters
- The Audit & Governance Committee considered some changes to the role and function of Member Champions and clarify the appointment process for future Member Champions. Audit & Governance Committee The committee was asked to recommend to Council to amend the Council's Constitution to replace part 8.5, Member Champion Role.
Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:
- Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board on Thursday 04 December 2025. Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board
- Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Friday 05 December 2025. Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Future Economy and Innovation on Monday 08 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Future Economy and Innovation
- County Council on Tuesday 09 December 2025. County Council
- Cabinet on Tuesday 09 December 2025. Cabinet
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management on Thursday 11 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action on Thursday 11 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation on Friday 12 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation
- Pension Fund Committee on Friday 12 December 2025. Pension Fund Committee
Mental Health Focus, Fostering Challenges, Rail Plan & Waste Fees
This week in Oxfordshire:
Mental Health and Wellbeing of Children Under Scrutiny
The Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee (HOSC) met to discuss the emotional wellbeing and mental health services available to children in the region. Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee With increasing concerns about the mental health of young people, the committee examined the effectiveness of current strategies and services.
- Why it matters: Early intervention and support for children's mental health can prevent long-term issues and improve overall wellbeing.
- Key Discussion Points:
- The committee reviewed the Emotional Mental Health and Wellbeing (EMH&WB) Strategy, launched in 2022, which focuses on early help, workforce development, and improved access to specialist services.
- The OxWell Survey, a large-scale survey of children and young people aged 9-18, highlighted issues such as bullying, loneliness, and body image.
- The committee discussed the Tellmi Mental Health Service, a digital platform offering peer support and counselling for young people aged 11-18.
- Potential Outcomes: The committee will make recommendations to improve the delivery of mental health services for children and young people in Oxfordshire.
Primary Care Access Under Review
The Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee formally agreed to establish a Primary Care Access and Estates Working Group. Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee The working group will focus on General Practice Services in Oxfordshire, aiming to identify and address barriers to effective primary care delivery.
- Why it matters: Access to primary care is essential for early diagnosis, treatment, and management of health conditions.
- Scope of the Working Group:
- Workforce Capacity and Clinical Time Balance
- Access Equity and Patient Experience
- Estate Constraints and Expansion Planning
- Alternative Funding Models and Design Solutions
- Service Integration and Transformation
- Use of Digital tools and technology
- Next Steps: The working group will engage with stakeholders including NHS commissioners, Healthwatch Oxfordshire, and individual general practitioners. The committee is scheduled to receive an update on the working group's activities, findings, and recommendations in June 2026.
Cabinet Considers Rail Strategy, Waste Policy, and Carbon Offsetting
The Oxfordshire Council Cabinet convened to discuss a range of issues, including the county's rail strategy, changes to waste disposal policy, and the council's carbon management plan. Cabinet The Cabinet also discussed and responded to motions passed at Council regarding children's centres and Healthwatch Oxfordshire.
OxRAIL 2040: Plan for Rail Strategy
The Cabinet considered the adoption of the OxRAIL 2040: Plan for Rail, a document intended to act as a daughter document to the Local Transport and Connectivity Plan. The OxRAIL 2040 plan sets out a strategy for the development of the rail network in Oxfordshire up to the year 2040.
Proposed Changes to the Waste Acceptance Policy
The Cabinet discussed proposed changes to the Waste Acceptance Policy (WAP) for Oxfordshire's household waste recycling centres (HWRCs). The changes were recommended for approval.
The Cabinet also discussed delaying reduced opening hours and days of operation, for implementation through the new service in 2027, and considered the introduction of new fees and charges commencing from January 2026, including:
- £5.50 per 1m x 1m volume for asbestos
- £15 per car visit for out of county customers
Carbon Management Plan Residual Carbon and Offsetting Policy
The Cabinet discussed the Carbon Management Plan (CMP) Residual Carbon and Offsetting Policy. The council has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2030. The Cabinet was asked to note the need for the purchase of carbon credits to offset the residual emissions in the Carbon Management Plan to meet this commitment.
Fostering Services Face Recruitment Challenges
The Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee met to discuss Oxfordshire's fostering service, reviewing the Fostering Annual Report 2024–25 and considering the fostering action plan for the upcoming year. Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee The report highlighted recruitment challenges, mirroring a national trend, and detailed planned actions for 2025–26, core development priorities, and key achievements.
- Why it matters: Fostering services provide essential care and support for children who are unable to live with their own families.
- Challenges Identified:
- Placement losses, with 34 deregistrations in 2024/25.
- A recruitment shortfall, where new approvals have not kept pace with losses.
- Insufficient in-house provision for adolescents, sibling groups, parent and child arrangements, unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, and children with disabilities.
- Actions for 2025/26:
- Targeted recruitment, focusing on carers who can take single placements or older children.
- Flexible approvals, with
Fit to Foster
approval for all foster carers, meaning approval for 0-18 year olds, short-term, emergency, and relief care. - A utilisation review to identify underused capacity.
- Retention support, offering tailored support to carers on hold to encourage reactivation.
Other Matters
- The Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee received an update from Healthwatch Oxfordshire on their recent reports, including
Trans and non-binary people's experiences of GP services in Oxfordshire
andDigital healthcare and the NHS App -Voices from Oxfordshire
. Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee - The Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee discussed attainment in schools, the annual report of the Virtual School, co-optee recruitment, the committee's forward work plan, and responses to previous scrutiny recommendations. Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- The Cabinet was scheduled to approve a budget increase of £2.518m from £10.8m to £13.318m to the A4130 Steventon Lights scheme, which is to be funded from a combination of funding sources. Cabinet
Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below:
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities on Tuesday 02 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities
- Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) on Thursday 04 December 2025. Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee)
- Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board on Thursday 04 December 2025. Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing and Safety on Thursday 04 December 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing and Safety
- Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Friday 05 December 2025. Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Planning & Regulation Committee on Monday 24 November 2025. Planning & Regulation Committee
- Audit & Governance Committee on Wednesday 26 November 2025. Audit & Governance Committee
- Health Improvement Partnership Board on Thursday 27 November 2025. Health Improvement Partnership Board
Oxfordshire Governance Shake-Up? Council Decides on Future Model
This week in Oxfordshire:
Council to Decide on Oxfordshire's Future Governance Model
Oxfordshire County Council is on the verge of a major decision regarding the future of local government in the county. The Cabinet met on November 13 to discuss and decide on a proposal for local government reorganisation (LGR) to submit to the government. The council is considering three different proposals for unitary local government in Oxfordshire and to agree on a preferred option to submit to the government by the deadline of 28 November 2025.
- Why it matters: The then Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution requested that the proposal is a
robust and sustainable unitary proposal that is in the best interests of the whole area
. The chosen model will impact everything from council tax to local planning decisions. - The proposals:
- One Oxfordshire: A proposal for a single unitary council for the whole county, which has been developed by Oxfordshire County Council.
- Oxford and Shires, and Ridgeway: A proposal for two unitary councils, developed by West Oxfordshire District Council, Cherwell District Council, South Oxfordshire District Council, Vale of White Horse District Council and West Berkshire Council.
- Three unitary authorities (Greater Oxford, Northern Oxfordshire and Ridgeway): A proposal developed by Oxford City Council.
- Potential Outcomes: Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of the Council, is expected to ask the cabinet to agree that the One Oxfordshire proposal is a
robust and sustainable unitary proposal that is in the best interests of the whole area
and to approve the One Oxfordshire proposal for submission to government in accordance with their deadline of 28 November 2025.
Enterprise Oxfordshire Gets New Leadership
The Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) convened to address key leadership and governance matters within Enterprise Oxfordshire, including the appointment of an interim managing director and changes to the board of directors. Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee)
- Why it matters: Enterprise Oxfordshire is intended to work closely with the County Council and other partners and stakeholders to deliver the county's forthcoming economic strategy.
- The details: The Shareholder Committee approved recommendations to appoint two new directors to the Enterprise Oxfordshire Board and to appoint an interim managing director.
- The appointments: Ian Dyson, Director of Financial and Commercial Services, and Kim Sawyer, Programme Director for Devolution, were appointed as Non-Executive Directors of Enterprise Oxfordshire. Nicholas Glover was appointed to the role of Interim Managing Director.
Traffic Changes Proposed for Didcot, Faringdon, Banbury, and Oxford
Residents across Oxfordshire could see changes to parking restrictions, speed limits, and traffic management as the council considers a series of proposals. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management
- Why it matters: These changes aim to improve road safety, manage traffic flow, and address parking issues in local communities.
- Didcot: A new permit parking area is proposed for Didcot Centre South, with restrictions applying Monday to Saturday, 8am-6pm.
- Introducing 'Residents permit holders parking only' areas on lengths of Bourne Street, Church Street, East Street, Hagbourne Road (between its junctions with Broadway & Kynaston Road), High Street, Kynaston Road, Mereland Road (between its junctions with Broadway & Kynaston Road), Newlands Avenue (between its junctions with Broadway & Kynaston Road), St Andrews Road, St Peters Road, Vicarage Road, and Wessex Road.
- Faringdon: A parking review could lead to new
No Loading at Any Time
restrictions and changes to time-limited waiting areas in the town centre. - Banbury: A 20mph speed limit is proposed for several roads in Banbury.
- Oxford: New waiting restrictions are proposed for various locations in Oxford City.
Local Aggregate Assessment and Landscape Management Plan Approved
Councillor Judy Roberts, Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action, made decisions regarding the Local Aggregate Assessment and the North Wessex Downs National Landscape Management Plan. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action
- Why it matters: The Local Aggregate Assessment (LAA) is an annual assessment of the demand for and supply of aggregates[^1] in Oxfordshire. The North Wessex Downs National Landscape Management Plan 2025-2030 sets out a vision for the area and how it will be managed over the next five years. [^1]: Aggregates are materials such as sand, gravel, and crushed stone that are used in construction.
- The details: Councillor Judy Roberts approved the Local Aggregate Assessment 2024, and authorised the Director for Economy and Place, in consultation with the Cabinet Member, to make any revisions and publish the Oxfordshire Local Aggregate Assessment for the calendar year 2024 on the council website.
- The details: Councillor Judy Roberts adopted the North Wessex Downs National Landscape Management Plan 2025-2030.
Other Matters
- The Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to meet on 12 November 2025 to discuss a range of topics, including the OxRail 2040 plan, infrastructure funding, movement and place plans, fire and rescue service improvements, and local government reorganisation. Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Future Economy and Innovation was scheduled to meet on 13 November 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Future Economy and Innovation
Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.
- Cabinet on Tuesday 18 November 2025. Cabinet
- Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 20 November 2025. Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Friday 21 November 2025. Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Planning & Regulation Committee on Monday 24 November 2025. Planning & Regulation Committee
- Audit & Governance Committee on Wednesday 26 November 2025. Audit & Governance Committee
- Health Improvement Partnership Board on Thursday 27 November 2025. Health Improvement Partnership Board
Oxfordshire Governance Shake-Up? Council to Decide on Future Plans
This week in Oxfordshire:
Council Faces Decision on Oxfordshire's Future Governance
Oxfordshire County Council is at a critical juncture as it prepares to submit its proposal for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) to the government. The Cabinet is set to meet on November 13 to review three different proposals for unitary local government in Oxfordshire and to agree on a preferred option to submit to the government by the deadline of November 28. This decision could reshape the way services are delivered and how the county is governed for years to come.
- Why it matters: The government is seeking a
robust and sustainable unitary proposal that is in the best interests of the whole area.
The chosen model will impact everything from council tax to local planning decisions. - The proposals:
- One Oxfordshire: A single unitary council for the whole county, developed by Oxfordshire County Council.
- Oxford and Shires, and Ridgeway: Two unitary councils, one for Oxford and surrounding areas, and another for South Oxfordshire, Vale of White Horse, and West Berkshire, developed by West Oxfordshire District Council, Cherwell District Council, South Oxfordshire District Council, Vale of White Horse District Council and West Berkshire Council.
- Three unitary authorities: Greater Oxford, Northern Oxfordshire, and Ridgeway, developed by Oxford City Council.
- Potential Outcomes: The Cabinet is expected to endorse the
One Oxfordshire
proposal, but alternative proposals are also on the table. The final decision rests with the government.
Scrutiny Committee to Review Local Government Reorganisation and Rail Plans
The Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday to discuss a range of topics including rail infrastructure, local government reorganisation, and movement and place plans. Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee The committee will also review the Infrastructure Funding Statement for 2024/25, the Section 106 Improvement Programme, and the Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service Improvement Programme. Additionally, the committee will consider the Cabinet's response to their report on the Oxford Temporary Congestion Charge.
- Why it matters: The committee's scrutiny plays a vital role in ensuring transparency and accountability in the council's decision-making processes.
- Local Government Reorganisation: The committee is scheduled to discuss the council's proposal for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) before it is considered by the Cabinet on 13 November.
- OxRail 2040: Plan for Rail: The committee is scheduled to discuss the OxRail 2040: Plan for Rail following the public consultation, but before it is submitted to Cabinet for approval.
Traffic Changes Proposed for Didcot, Faringdon, Banbury, and Oxford
Residents across Oxfordshire could see changes to parking restrictions, speed limits, and traffic management as the council considers a series of proposals. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management
- Why it matters: These changes aim to improve road safety, manage traffic flow, and address parking issues in local communities.
- Didcot: A new permit parking area is proposed for Didcot Centre South, with restrictions applying Monday to Saturday, 8am-6pm.
- Introducing 'Residents permit holders parking only' areas on lengths of Bourne Street, Church Street, East Street, Hagbourne Road (between its junctions with Broadway & Kynaston Road), High Street, Kynaston Road, Mereland Road (between its junctions with Broadway & Kynaston Road), Newlands Avenue (between its junctions with Broadway & Kynaston Road), St Andrews Road, St Peters Road, Vicarage Road, and Wessex Road.
- Faringdon: A parking review could lead to new
No Loading at Any Time
restrictions and changes to time-limited waiting areas in the town centre. - Banbury: A 20mph speed limit is proposed for several roads in Banbury.
- Oxford: New waiting restrictions are proposed for various locations in Oxford City.
Other Matters
- The Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) is scheduled to meet on 13 November 2025 to discuss the appointment of an interim managing director for Enterprise Oxfordshire, as well as the appointment and removal of non-executive directors. Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee)
- The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action is scheduled to meet on 13 November 2025 to discuss and make decisions on the Local Aggregate Assessment and the North Wessex Downs National Landscape Management Plan. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action
Upcoming meetings in the next 7 days are listed below.
- Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Wednesday 12 November 2025. Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Cabinet on Thursday 13 November 2025. Cabinet
- Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) on Thursday 13 November 2025. Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee)
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action on Thursday 13 November 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management on Thursday 13 November 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management
- Cabinet on Tuesday 18 November 2025. Cabinet
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People on Tuesday 18 November 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
- Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Resources and Deputy Leader on Tuesday 18 November 2025. Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Resources and Deputy Leader
- Delegated Decisions by Leader of the Council on Tuesday 18 November 2025. Delegated Decisions by Leader of the Council
- Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 20 November 2025. Oxfordshire Joint Health Overview & Scrutiny Committee
- Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee on Friday 21 November 2025. Education and Young People Overview & Scrutiny Committee
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation - Friday, 12 December 2025 2.00 pm
The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Finance, Property and Transformation are scheduled to meet on 12 December 2025 to discuss the leasehold acquisition of a warehouse in Bicester. The meeting will also cover declarations of interest, questions from county councillors, and petitions and public addresses.
Pension Fund Committee - Friday, 12 December 2025 10.00 am
Here is a summary of the scheduled discussions for the Oxfordshire Council Pension Fund Committee meeting on 12 December 2025.
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Transport Management - Thursday, 11 December 2025 10.00 am
We couldn't generate a summary for this meeting. Please check back later.
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action - Thursday, 11 December 2025 2.00 pm
This meeting of the Oxfordshire Council's Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action was scheduled to discuss awarding a contract for the Didcot Science Bridge, and approving the procurement of contracts for leachate treatment. The meeting was also scheduled to confirm the minutes of the previous meeting, and to address any declarations of interest, questions from county councillors, or petitions and public addresses.
Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) - Tuesday, 9 December 2025 4.30 pm, NEW
The Shareholder Committee (Cabinet Committee) convened to approve the minutes from their previous meeting and to adopt the Enterprise Oxfordshire accounts for the 2024/25 financial year. The committee approved both recommendations.
Extra, Cabinet - Tuesday, 9 December 2025 4.00 pm
The Oxfordshire County Council Cabinet was scheduled to meet on 9 December 2025 to discuss a number of issues, including a proposal to submit an Expression of Interest to the government regarding devolution for Oxfordshire. The meeting was also scheduled to include a discussion of reports from scrutiny committees. Public questions and petitions could be submitted ahead of the meeting.
County Council - Tuesday, 9 December 2025 10.30 am
The Oxfordshire County Council meeting on 9 December 2025 included discussion of a proposal to submit an Expression of Interest for a Mayoral Strategic Authority, a review of member allowances, and reports on gender and ethnicity pay gaps. Also on the agenda was a mid-term review of treasury management and a review of member champions. Several motions were put forward for consideration, covering topics such as emergency planning for reservoir discharges, community cohesion, mental health services, men's health awareness, and pavement weed clearance.
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Future Economy and Innovation - Monday, 8 December 2025 10.00 am
This meeting has been cancelled.
Performance & Corporate Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee - Friday, 5 December 2025 10.00 am
The Performance and Corporate Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee met to discuss a range of topics, including public health, devolution, parking permits and the FixMyStreet platform. The committee was scheduled to review performance, consider recommendations, and monitor progress against strategic priorities.
Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board - Thursday, 4 December 2025 2.00 pm
The Oxfordshire Health & Wellbeing Board was scheduled to meet to discuss updates on homelessness prevention, healthy housing, neighbourhood health, community insight profiles, safeguarding, and partnership boards. The board was also expected to review the forward work programme.
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Children and Young People - Tuesday, 16 December 2025 3.00 pm
Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Adults - Tuesday, 16 December 2025 9.00 am