PLANS for major new powers to bill developers for funding towards transport, health and community projects are set to move a step forward today.

Oxford City Council will discuss proposals to make it one of the first authorities in the country to introduce a community infrastructure levy (CIL).

At the moment developers pay money out as part of “section 106” agreements to soften the impact of developments, such as when Oxford University paid for the Divinity Road controlled parking zone while expanding its Old Road campus.

But CIL will mean developers will pay a set sum per square metre and councils can pool cash and spend it on projects anywhere in Oxford.

Colin Cook, council board member for city development, said: “It is more transparent for applicants looking for planning permission and they will know what commitments are needed. It gives the council greater freedom.”

Councillors will have to approve the schedule which will then go out for public consultation next month. The full meeting of the city council takes place tonight at the Town Hall at 5pm.