RESIDENTS in Headington have been asked for their views on where new housing developments and other major projects should be built Oxford over the next 20 years.

It is part of a consultation on the latest Local Plan, which will outline growth until 2036.

The existing one will soon expire so Oxford City Council are currently speaking to people to get as many opinions as possible.

So far seven out of 11 'First Steps' consultations across the city have been held, with scores chatting with officers at Headington Farmers' Market on Saturday.

Planning policy officer Richard Wyatt said: "It has been positive and we have had quite a stash of leaflets handed out.

"What we are trying to do is build awareness that we are starting the process again. It's a clean slate."

The first local plan, which has been in place since 2001, focused on residential development and the environment as key priorities.

Residents are now being asked for their ideas on Oxford should look 20 years down the line to inform planning policy in years to come.

Mr Wyatt added: "One of the biggest challenges in Oxford is the shortage of housing, so part of the reason for doing the local plan is to investigate the most appropriate location for that.

"Planning is about having the right development in the right place at the right time. If we can achieve that, we will be very happy.

"Someone also mentioned there were a lot of cars in the city and they were concerned about air pollution."

Physiotherapist Margaret Norwood, who attended the Farmers' Market on the corner of New High Street at the weekend, said she was pleased Headington residents were being given the chance to air her views.

She said: "I think it's very good to involve people.

"It's brilliant for community but that's because people in Headington take an interest in the community; if something is happening they don't like, they speak up."

She added that her main concern was over-development in the area: "They are building a lot more flats in already congested places.

"It's traffic and cycles as well. In Headington we have a lot of cyclists on the pavement through this busy area. Also at the traffic lights; I have twice saved elderly people from being knocked over because cyclists don't obey the lights."

People in East Oxford, Blackbird Leys, Botley and Headington have so far been offered the chance to contribute their views.

A further four events are due to be held in Gloucester Green, Rose Hill and South Oxford, with the next one taking place tomorrow from 10am to 5pm in Gloucester Green Market. Officers will be on hand to explain the Oxford Local Plan in detail and take people's views.

For more information visit www.oxford.gov.uk and search for The Local Plan.