WEST Oxfordshire District Council (WODC) will meet today to discuss the future of the region - and protecting the environment is a key objective.

The cabinet will consider and recommend approval of the final draft of its Council Plan 2020-24, which aims to ‘improve the quality of life in West Oxfordshire’.

The plan’s top priorities include: climate action; transport; creating a vibrant economy; and meeting housing needs.

James Mills, leader of the council, said: “The plan is an opportunity to set out a vision for West Oxfordshire and the areas that we as a council can look at and make a better place to live.”

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Near the top of the list is tackling environment problems as the council is attempting to tackle climate issues by securing a low carbon future.

In fact, the council aims to be a Carbon Neutral Council by 2030.

Other environmental issues include increasing both residential and commercial reuse and recycling.

All this is in an attempt to improve air and water quality across the region.

David Harvey, cabinet member for climate change, said: “We have been working extremely hard at bringing together a climate change action plan which we’ll be publishing in a couple of weeks time.

“We’ve looked at the role the council plays in planning and fast evolving technologies in the provision of energy efficient homes.

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“We’ll also be looking to install more electric vehicle charging points whilst doing a lot to increase the growth of trees.

“It’s about being ahead of the game rather than being behind the curve - we want to be pioneering.

“We’ve been listening to other councils - not just in this country - and see what they’re doing and learn from them.”

The council appointed its first climate change manager, Vanessa Scott, in November.

Transport remains an issue and the council will also look to address both short and long term enhancements to the A40 and the Cotswold railway line.

Mr Mills explained: “More people on trains means fewer people on the A40 and we were also really pleased that the government is giving money to help with the A40 as it's such an important route for everyone in the county.”

“The council has already made investments into Hanborough station and will seek further improvements.”

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Housing problems will be tackled as the council tries to ensure an adequate supply of housing is available to meet those in need of affordable housing.

WODC hope to do this by increasing the number of affordable housing units delivered annually in order to reduce the housing waiting list.

Mr Mills said: “The council has been working with a number of partners on different schemes as housing is one of the most significant costs for people.”

Meanwhile, in attempts to create stronger local communities the council is planning to bring in parks with interactive features, more community notice boards, and increase flexible spaces for local clubs to help build a stronger community.

The council will also be looking to develop its own relationship with towns and parishes through regular Parish Forums.