PLANS to create a big community woodland in Bicester are expected to move a step closer.

The Cherwell District Council executive will discuss the community green space to be created on land south of Vendee Drive, near Bicester's park and ride.

The committee meeting, on Monday, July 2, will look at creating a formal joint committee to develop and manage the new woodland park.

Work to bring the community woodland to life has been in the pipeline for the past three years and local authorities have been working to research and develop ideas for the area.

The land, currently owned by Countryside Properties, is part of the neighbouring housing site Kingsmere and will be handed over to Cherwell District Council for the project.

It is hoped the woodland will help improve facilities for green space in the area as Bicester continues to expand and build more homes.

The hand-over of land from Countryside Properties is expected to take place later this year before work can begin.

Monday's meeting is expected to establish a working group with Bicester Town Council, Chesterton Parish Council, Oxfordshire County Council and a local representative to help bring the plans forward.