SODC News July 2009

I am delighted to be able to report that SODC is taking the Government to court over

its plans to allow Oxford City Council to build 4000 homes in South Oxfordshire on

the Green Belt south of Grenoble Road. As you all know this has been an ongoing

battle for me personally and it is a real vindication that we now feel confident that we

have ample grounds to take it to a Judicial Review. Papers have been served on the

Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government and the process is in

motion.

As a Council we are absolutely opposed to development in the Green Belt which was

set up to protect Oxford City and its historic villages. Oxford City Council should

concentrate on building the requisite housing on brown field sites within the City

itself and adhere to its own long stated policy of non-growth. This mindless land

grabbing is not a viable long term solution for Oxford City, the historic villages, the

Leys or indeed the proposed housing itself. I will naturally keep you updated on

events.

With regards to the new rubbish collection arrangements: I am all too aware that

there have been teething problems and do apologise on behalf of SODC for this, I

hope and believe that we are now sorting out the last hitches- however on the whole

the system has kicked in well and we are pleased to be finally dealing with the

unacceptable land-fill solution of the past. Should anyone be experiencing persisting,

unresolved problems please do not hesitate to call me.

Elizabeth Gillespie (343116)