In response to the predicted increase of population in Oxford (April 27), Oxford City Council proposes that we should build more homes, in particular in the Green Belt.

In economic terms this ‘solution’ concentrates entirely on increasing supply whilst ignoring the potential to reduce demand – not very imaginative.

It also ignores the huge brownfield reserve offered by empty properties and car parks which could have apartments on them above surface level.

It’s about time Oxford took the foot off the accelerator as regards economic development.

We already have higher employment rates than the average for the country, and for the county.

Why continue to attract business to our city putting ever more pressure, not just on the Green Belt, but on the precious green spaces within Oxford?

These are vital for the quality of life of local residents, providing tranquil oases in the midst of the bustle of modern life.

More jobs in Oxford ratchets up the pressure on our already overstretched services and infrastructure: more traffic on our already crowded roads, more fumes increasing our already dire air pollution and more commuters who choose to drive into the city.

We should use our imagination, it’s not just about ever more development and ever more jobs, life is also about quality of life and enjoyment.

What is the Oxford we want to leave to our children and grandchildren, one of untrammelled economic development and house building with urban sprawl and minimal green spaces, or one where quality of life matters?

We can ‘Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence’: (Max Ehrmann)

HAZEL DAWE
Treasurer, Oxfordshire Green Party
Bulan Road
Oxford