AN EMBRYONIC neighbourhood plan for the Bloxham area is a step closer to becoming reality after councillors agreed it was ready to go to referendum.

The draft form of a shared vision by locals for their area was pored over by an independent examiner over the summer, whose report was seen by Cherwell District Council.

At a district council executive meeting on Monday, September 5, members agreed to amend the plan to meet the examiner's recommendations before going to referendum.

Neighbourhood planning allows communities to shape the places where new homes, shops and places of work could be built.

Colin Clarke, the lead member for planning, said: "We are pleased to support Bloxham villagers in this plan to take control of developments that come to their village.

"Neighbourhood planning will give them the ability to better protect their village's heritage but also shape the parish's future in a way that meets their needs".

The final form of the Bloxham Neighbourhood Plan was submitted to the district council in November 2015 and includes demographics and historical context for the village near Banbury.

Based on extensive research and consultation with Bloxham residents, its four stated aims are to:

-Deliver the houses the village needs

-Potect and enhance our rural heritage

-Promote economic vitality

-Ensure a safe, healthy, cohesive community.

Key spaces including the area fronting the Bloxham School main buildings, Hobb Hill and views from Courtington Lane are among those earmarked for special protection.

In her report, the examiner said the plan was "well presented" and "various and numerous efforts have been made to engage the community".

A series of small modifications have been recommended and approved by CDC and the plan will shortly be voted on by Bloxham's 4,800-strong electorate.

If approved it will be considered and referred to in determining planning applications in the parish.

Mr Clarke added: "I look forward to seeing how the parishioners choose to proceed with their plans.

"If the referendum result favours the neighbourhood plan, Cherwell will continue to support and guide the parish through the process of developing and implementing it".