The leader of West Oxfordshire District Council welcomed guests to the official opening of the the council chamber following a £450,000 refurbishment.

Current and former councillors and representatives of local schools and organisations attended the celebration on May 22, which also commemorated the 50th anniversary of the formation of district councils.

Former chair of the council Andrew Coles opened the event, followed by speeches from Deputy Lieutenant of Oxfordshire Lynda Atkins, and WODC’s Youth Champion India Mae Thompson. 

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The refurbishment of the old council chamber was completed in February at a cost of £457,000.

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Conservatives said the renovations were unnecessary and the money could have been better spent on "pressing community needs or to alleviate financial burdens on taxpayers".

The Lib Dem-led coalition argued that a benefit of the "required renovation" was the creation of a space which could be used by both the council and community.

It has already hosted several council meetings and arrangements are currently being put in place to open it up for wider public use later in the year. 

Leader Andy Graham said: “It has been wonderful to welcome members of our community to join us to celebrate this occasion. 

“So much has been achieved since WODC was formed 50 years ago. Welcoming back many of the individuals who have played a role in driving positive changes over the years has reminded us of just how far we’ve come.

"More importantly, though, today also served as a reminder of the work that lies ahead and the duty we have to deliver the best possible services for our beloved district.” 

In 1972, hundreds of new councils, including WODC, were formed under the Local Government Act.