{"id":5219,"date":"2015-06-01T10:25:42","date_gmt":"2015-06-01T10:25:42","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/?page_id=5219"},"modified":"2015-06-17T12:29:17","modified_gmt":"2015-06-17T12:29:17","slug":"draft-policies","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/plan\/draft-plan\/draft-policies\/","title":{"rendered":"Draft Policies"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Draft Plan can be viewed here <\/a>but individual policies can be seen below – just scroll down the page or select a policy area\u00a0from this list:
\nAmenities & Green Spaces<\/strong><\/a>
\n Character & Identity<\/strong><\/a>
\n Housing<\/strong><\/a>
\n Education<\/strong><\/a>
\n Business & Retail<\/strong><\/a>
\n Transport<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

<\/a>
\nAMENITIES\u00a0(AM) AND GREEN\u00a0SPACES (GS)<\/strong>
\nThe aim of the Amenity and Green Spaces Group is firstly, the greening of Headington through policies designed to protect and enhance green space and biodiversity, and secondly, to improve and extend the facilities for culture, sports and other community uses through policies designed to protect existing facilities and provide new facilities through the extension of public access.<\/p>\n

Spatial\u00a0Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n

GSP1: Retaining Public Access Green Space<\/strong>
\n All current publicly accessible green space in the Headington Neighbourhood Plan area will be retained as publicly accessible green space. There will be a strong presumption against the development of and building on publicly accessible green space.<\/strong>
\nOxford Local Plan Core Strategy Policy CS21 seeks to maintain an overall average of 5.75 hectares (ha) of publicly accessible green space per 1000 population. Applied to Headington this would require an additional 60ha of publicly accessible green space currently, and 115ha by 2030. This policy seeks to maintain the existing total area of publicly accessible green spaces and where possible increase that area.
\nDevelopment proposals that safeguard and\/or provide opportunities to improve the quality and quantity of publicly accessible green space through appropriate restoration, extension, expansion or diversification in a scale and setting compatible with their location will be welcomed.<\/p>\n

GSP2: Provision of Green Space within Residential Developments<\/strong>
\n Residential developments of ten or more residential units and significant non-residential developments will provide at least 20% of the total site area as publicly accessible green space. They will also include biodiversity enhancement plans setting out measures to increase the biodiversity of the site. These plans will indicate arrangements for their maintenance.<\/strong>
\nThe Oxford Local Plan Sites and Housing Plan requires residential developments of 20 or more dwellings to provide at least 10% of total site area for publicly accessible green space. In view of the current shortfall this policy sets a higher standard for development.
\nThe Oxford Local Plan requires larger developments to provide on-site green space where this will enhance the range of green space already available in an area or to make a financial contribution. In Headington the provision of space rather than a financial contribution is considered to be more appropriate to deal with the current shortfall in publicly accessible green space.<\/p>\n

GSP3: Protecting Green Spaces<\/strong>
\n Development or change of use will not be supported on: (a) land which has a significant wildlife or ecological value; and (b) existing allotment land. Development will not be supported where development may result in harm, both directly or indirectly, on local wildlife or ecology beyond the proposed development.<\/strong>
\nLocal authorities have a duty under the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act to conserve biodiversity. The National Planning Policy Framework requires local authorities to maintain networks of natural habitats. The Oxfordshire Biodiversity and Action Plan highlight the benefits of a natural environment with a rich biodiversity in terms of health and well-being.
\nPolicy GSP3 aims to increase provision of allotments so that at least 90% of residents live within 750 metres of an allotment site. Current Oxford City Council policy is for provision of 1 allotment plot per 125 people. Evidence suggests that for the present population of 18,000 residents 144 allotment plots are required. By 2030, the population is projected to rise to 20,000 residents when 160 allotment plots will be required. There is currently a provision of 96 allotment plots within the Headington Neighbourhood Plan Area, meaning a shortfall of 48 allotment plots. This shortfall is projected to rise to 64 plots by 2030.<\/p>\n

GSP4: Protecting Tree Cover<\/strong>
\n All mature trees will be conserved. Where the removal of mature trees is unavoidable as a result of development, the developer will cover the cost of planting an equal number of trees at a designated site within the Headington Neighbourhood Plan area.<\/strong>
\nThere will be a list of designated sites drawn up following the confirmation of the Neighbourhood Plan. Designated sites will not include sites for which the planting of trees is the responsibility of a local authority.<\/p>\n

GSP5: Protection of Green Setting<\/strong>
\n The protection of the external green setting of Headington will be taken fully into account when considering any proposals for development either within or outside Headington. The development of green space which has a significant visual amenity value will be discouraged. The visual impact of proposed developments on green spaces will be taken into consideration at the planning stage.<\/strong>
\nHeadington\u2019s green setting makes a very significant contribution to its character as a place surrounded by green space and to its status as an urban village. Oxford City Council’s Green Spaces Study refers to \u201cvisually valuable sites\u201d and recognises the importance of retaining the green setting. Policy GSP5 aims to protect this setting. Proposals for development either within Headington or its surrounding area will need to take account of any impacts on the green setting of the Neighbourhood Plan area. Any potential impacts of development on the green setting of Headington will be assessed through the application of the visual cones methodology which is currently used to protect the setting of Oxford City.
\nPolicy GSP5 applies to both non \u2013 publicly accessible green space and public access green space. It also applies to street trees and verges, informal green spaces, green spaces around significant buildings, churches and the like and which makes an important contribution to Headington\u2019s setting as an urban village.<\/p>\n

GSP6: Drainage<\/strong>
\n All proposed developments will be required to demonstrate that they do not decrease rain water infiltration. Those proposals that can demonstrate that they increase rain water infiltration will be encouraged. ALL run-off water should be infiltrated into the ground with permeable surfaces (SuDS) so that the quantity of road run-off is substantially decreased.<\/strong>
\nA regular maintenance obligation should be in place to ensure these SuDS features function into the future. This is to reduce erosion of the Lye Valley SSSI and the likelihood of flooding in Florence Park and Cowley.<\/p>\n

AMP1: Protecting and Enhancing Sports, Leisure and Community Facilities<\/strong>
\n Existing sports, leisure and community facilities will be protected and opportunities for enhancement will be sought. New development will be required to provide developer contribution for the enhancement of existing facilities, or where this is not appropriate, the provision of new community facilities within the Neighbourhood Plan area. Where the loss of a facility is unavoidable as a result of development, alternative facilities will be provided within the Headington Neighbourhood Plan area. Alternative facilities should be provided as near to the existing facilities as possible.<\/strong>
\nThe aim of Policy AMP1 is to protect existing facilities in the face of development pressure within Headington, and increase the range and quality of facilities within Headington. This policy reinforces the Oxford Local Plan Core Strategy Policies CS21 and CS17. The provision of facilities not already available in Headington will be encouraged.<\/p>\n

AMP2: Provision of Public Access to Sports and Leisure Facilities<\/strong>
\n Planning permissions for new developments at the major commercial, health and educational sites in the Headington Neighbourhood Plan area will include conditions for the provision of public access to on-site private sports and leisure facilities.<\/strong>
\nThis policy reinforces Core Strategy Policy CS21 and seeks to increase the range of facilities available to Headington residents.<\/p>\n

Community Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n

GSC1: Enhancing Headington’s Street Setting<\/strong>
\n Headington’s street setting will be enhanced by implementing the following actions:<\/strong>
\n\u2666\u00a0on-street trees will be conserved and increased and, when necessary, replaced by wildlife friendly varieties rich in pollen, nectar, seeds, berries and fruits;<\/strong>
\n\u2666 all small informal green spaces and verges will be protected and maintained;<\/strong>
\n\u2666 the provision and retention of green front gardens will be encouraged; and<\/strong>
\n\u2666 the rural character of Headington\u2019s footpaths and bridleways will be conserved and enhanced as appropriate.<\/strong>
\nFront gardens make an important attractive contribution to the Headington street scene and encourage biodiversity by providing flowers, shrubs and trees rich in pollen, nectar and berries or fruits which feed birds and other wildlife in winter.
\nFootpaths and bridleways are important wildlife corridors essential to ensure populations do not become isolated and thereby die out. Several of Headington\u2019s footpaths\/bridleways have a distinctly \u2018rural\u2019 feel with important populations of native species, for example Stoke Place. The National Pollinator Strategy will inform this policy.<\/p>\n

GSC2: Protecting Green Spaces<\/strong>
\n In order to conserve and enhance Headington’s green spaces:<\/strong>
\n\u2666 where appropriate green spaces will be designated to the highest possible level of statutory protection to ensure their long term protection;<\/strong>
\n\u2666 parks in Headington will be developed and managed in accordance with their particular individual character; and<\/strong>
\n\u2666 the major institutions in Headington will be encouraged to increase the level of public access to their green spaces and to make land available for allotments for the benefit of their staff and of Headington residents.<\/strong>
\nThe Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Consultation highlighted particular concern about the protection of the Rock Edge Local Nature Reserve. Policy GSC2 aims to move key green spaces up the hierarchy of statutory protection through the process of designation or re- designation and seeks to increase the provision of publicly accessible green space in the Headington Neighbourhood Plan area.
\nIt is important that each park retains its special character to provide a variety of environments for enjoyment by the public and for wildlife and biodiversity. Opportunities for enhancement will be sought. For example Bury Knowle Park has the character of the garden of a mansion while Headington Hill Park has the character of an arboretum.<\/p>\n

GSC3: Community Stewardship<\/strong>
\n Community stewardship of green spaces in Headington will be encouraged.<\/strong>
\nThe aim is to develop Friends groups as advocates for all public green spaces. Policy GSC3 reinforces the policies within the Oxford Green Spaces Strategy.<\/p>\n

GSC4: Headington Biodiversity Plan<\/strong>
\n The Headington Biodiversity Plan will be developed and implemented (This will include a pollinator management plan and a wild flower plan.) Existing wildlife corridors and biodiversity will be conserved and enhanced, and opportunities will be sought for new wildlife corridors where appropriate.<\/strong>
\nWildlife corridors encourage movement of wildlife for foraging and mating and increasing territory. They prevent populations from becoming isolated and dying out. It is therefore important that these corridors are protected. Policy GSC4 aims to support the Oxford Biodiversity Plan currently in preparation.<\/p>\n

AMC1: Enhancing Accessibility to Leisure and Community Facilities<\/strong>
\n The major commercial health and educational and religious institutions will be encouraged to provide public access to their on-site sports, leisure and community facilities.<\/strong>
\nPolicy AMC1 supports the intentions of Core Strategy CS21 to increase the range of facilities available to Headington residents.<\/p>\n

<\/a>
\nCHARACTER AND IDENTITY\u00a0(CI)<\/strong>
\nThe Character and Identity Group has been working to develop policies which aim to ensure that development protects, enhances and promotes the special qualities, character and local distinctiveness of Headington in order to help maintain its identity and sense of place.
\nIn developing the Draft Neighbourhood Plan Policies set out below, a Character Assessment<\/a> was undertaken by local residents who divided the plan area into 20 distinct character areas (see map<\/a> of character areas).
\nThe Character Assessment has built an understanding of the whole area and, within each of the Character Studies, how the character varies from place to place. This has included identifying significant features that make the greatest positive contribution towards its special quality.
\nThese descriptions of local character and design guidance have provided a high level of detail for each of the areas concerned. Reference should be made to each of these statements to inform the preparation or assessment of proposals for change that would have an impact on local character and distinctiveness. Omission of a building, feature or space from these character assessments should not be taken to imply it is of no interest.<\/p>\n

Planning Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n

CIP1: Development to respect existing local character<\/strong>
\n New development (including additions,alterations, change of use and extensions) must respect and enhance the distinctive local character as identified in the Character Studies. This will include consideration of materials, scale, siting use, layout, form, design and intensity of activity within the built environment and setting of the Neighbourhood Plan area.<\/strong>
\nDesign should reinforce the local character of each area. Existing elements such as trees, hedges and walls should be retained, particularly where they are important features in the streetscape or characteristic of the area. Planting and landscaping schemes, boundary treatments and surfacing should all be taken into consideration in design of development. The layout and design of new streets and associated infrastructure should also respond to local character and scale, and proportion of historic street patterns.<\/p>\n

CIP2: Protecting locally important views<\/strong>
\n Development will need to take account of, and seek to protect important views, landmarks and local points in the area, having regard to other policies in the Plan.<\/strong>
\nNew development, where possible, should maximise opportunities to create new views. Many views are identified in the Character Assessments.<\/p>\n

CIP3: Innovative design<\/strong>
\n High quality development proposals, which are of an innovative and\/or contemporary design will be permitted where they:<\/strong>
\n \u2666 accord with policies in the Local Plan<\/strong>
\n\u2666 respect and take account of local heritage; and<\/strong>
\n\u2666 enhance the distinctive identity, character and setting in terms of scale, layout, density, orientation and massing.<\/strong><\/p>\n

CIP4: Protecting important assets<\/strong>
\n Proposed development of, or immediately adjacent to, important assets must pay special regard to conserving and enhancing their character and setting, and any special architectural or historic features of significance they possess.<\/strong>
\nAs part of the Character Assessments a list of important assets was compiled. Development proposals that lead to the loss or harm of important assets identified in these Character Assessments, their setting or any features important to their character will not be permitted. These assets are also seen as candidates for inclusion in Oxford\u2019s Heritage Asset Register.<\/p>\n

<\/a>
\nHOUSING(HG)<\/strong>
\nThe aim of the Housing Group is to improve the supply of affordable housing in Headington for key workers, and also to reduce commuting into Headington of these key workers, many of whom are medical staff.<\/p>\n

Planning Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n

Policy HGP1: Affordable Homes for Key Workers from Large Housing Sites<\/strong>
\n Proposals for large residential developments on Large Housing Sites (See definition of Large Sites – Oxford City Housing Policy HP3) in which all the dwellings are only available to key worker (See definition of key worker – Sites and Housing Plan 2011-2026, \u00a7A2.30) will be supported subject to other policies in the Plan. This policy supersedes the requirement set out in Oxford City Council\u2019s Housing Policy HP3 to include proportions of affordable and\/or social housing in the development.<\/strong>
\nWhile much of the current Oxford City Housing policy adequately addresses housing-related concerns raised during the consultation processes, there is an urgent need to review the development of housing for key workers.
\nThe very high rents in Oxford make it extremely difficult for key workers to both work in Oxford and live near their work. A large number of low-paid key workers are employed within the HNF Area, predominantly by the NHS, schools and universities.
\nCurrently, for example, if the hospital trusts wish to build key worker accommodation on sites SP8 (Churchill), SP23 (John Radcliffe) or SP59 (Warneford) it would be in addition to the 50% (possibly reduced to 40% or with payments in lieu) of affordable housing required. The proposed policy would increase the viability of any such development and provide much needed housing for NHS key workers. Also, providing accommodation for key workers near their places of work would decrease their need to commute into Oxford.<\/p>\n

Community Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n

HGC1: Develop a watch system for reporting suspected unlicensed HMOs<\/strong>.
\nUnlicensed HMOs was an area of concern identified by residents during the Issues and Options Consultation.<\/p>\n

HGC2: Develop a planning application watch system, based on the City Council\u2019s notification system.<\/strong>
\nConcern that planning applications were being submitted and determined without knowledge and consultation with the local community were expressed during the Issues and Options Consultation.<\/p>\n

HGC3: Encourage Oxford Community Land Trust to become active in Headington.<\/strong>
\nA community land trust is a nonprofit corporation that develops and stewards affordable housing, community gardens, civic buildings, commercial spaces and other community assets on behalf of a community. Encouraging such an organisation within the Headington Neighbourhood Plan area could bring potential benefits to residents.<\/p>\n

HGC4: Identify houses empty more than six months and derelict houses for homes<\/strong>
\n development.<\/strong>
\nBringing derelict and empty homes back into use will help to deal with the local housing shortage.<\/p>\n

HGC5: Identify empty shops or empty spaces above shops for homes development.<\/strong>
\nThe Forum would not want to see the loss of shops or related spaces from being available for retail and business purposes, however where these facilities are considered as no longer being necessary through a viability assessment, they should be considered for residential development.<\/p>\n

<\/a>
\nEDUCATION\u00a0(ED)<\/strong>
\nThe aim of the Education Group is to allow the expansion or addition of new facilities within the general context of local education provision. Changes will be allowed, but the policy only encourages provision aimed at education for which at least some part is intended for local children.<\/p>\n

Planning Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n

EDP1: New Education Provision<\/strong>
\n Proposals for change of use of non-residential premises to educational premises (D1 Non- residential institutions) for early-years or 5-19 education provision, for those who live or work in the Neighbourhood Plan area, will be supported, subject to other policies in the Neighbourhood Plan.<\/strong>
\nThis policy encourages provision of education for local children through welcoming changes to expand or add new provision to educational facilities within the Neighbourhood Plan area.
\nThat’s not to say that international schools, residential schools or education for those over 18 should not be offered, just that this policy is silent on them.<\/p>\n

<\/a>
\nBUSINESS AND RETAIL\u00a0(BR)<\/strong>
\nThe Business and Retail Group has been meeting since February 2014 and has carried out a number of engagement exercises with local businesses as part of the Draft Neighbourhood Plan preparation process.
\nThe Group has not produced any specific spatial planning policies, but, through consultation with local businesses, has identified a number of policies to help meet the vision and objectives of the Draft Neighbourhood Plan.<\/p>\n

Community Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Business and Retail PWG supports the improvement of traffic flow in Headington to enhance the experience of potential customers in the area’s main shopping and business area on London Road and Windmill Road. To this end it proposes that:<\/p>\n

BRC1: Changes to Car Parking Charges<\/strong>
\n The car parks on St Leonard\u2019s Road and Old High Street should provide free parking for 30 minutes followed by stepped parking charges.<\/strong>
\nParking was identified as the most important issue when the Business and Retail PWG met with representatives of the Headington business and retail community.<\/p>\n

BRC2: Creating a Headington Business Association<\/strong>
\n Support the aspiration of members of the Headington retail and business community to create an association to act as a forum for:<\/strong>
\n\u2666\u00a0improving communications between members over issues such as security<\/strong>
\n\u2666 discussing and acting on issues of common interest; and<\/strong>
\n\u2666 joint actions to promote and enhance Headington\u2019s potential a place to do business.<\/strong>
\nHaving a local business organisation was also identified by the representatives of the Headington business and retail community as an important element of improving Headington. It was noted that previous attempts to have a retail association had failed, but that such an organization would be a positive step for the area\u2019s business community<\/p>\n

<\/a>
\nTRANSPORT\u00a0(TR)<\/strong>
\nThe aim of the policies produced by the Transport Group are to reduce traffic congestion and its associated adverse consequences of air and noise pollution and constraint of economic activity, by actively encouraging journeys on foot, by bicycle, public transport or shared car scheme vehicle.<\/p>\n

Planning Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n

TRP1: Parking Provision at major employment sites<\/strong>
\n Proposals for additional car parking spaces at major employment sites in Headington will only be supported if they can demonstrate strong evidence that Headington\u2019s road network has adequate unused capacity at peak times.<\/strong>
\nCombating congestion requires that employees should reach their workplaces by sustainable transport methods \u2013 buses, walking or cycling. Headington\u2019s road network is operating at or beyond its capacity, and should not be expected to accommodate additional commuter traffic.
\nIt should be noted that the Forum does not seek to place undue obstacles in the way of the important work undertaken at Headington\u2019s main employment sites, and provides for the restrictions to be lifted if and when the transport infrastructure can be shown to be adequate.<\/p>\n

TRP2: Parking at Multi-Unit Developments<\/strong>
\n Proposed developments of more than 10 residential units will be encouraged if at least one parking space is reserved for a car share vehicle through a subscription or membership to a recognised car-sharing group (e.g. a car club such as Co-Wheels). Exceptions can be made if there is already access to a shared car within 50 metres of the development.<\/strong>
\nShared cars reduce the number of parked cars clogging up residential streets, and their incorporation into multi-unit developments frees up more space for accommodating people rather than cars.
\nIt is estimated that one shared car can replace between 7 and 19 non-shared cars. (see RAC report \u201cCar Rental 2.0\u201d). Developments in information technology have removed many of the obstacles to car-sharing. The use of shared cars, as well as uncluttering streets, freeing up space for dwellings and saving money for users, also inhibits car use (because the user pays the average cost of each trip, while the car owner only pays the marginal cost \u2013 but is saddled with large fixed costs of depreciation, insurance and maintenance).<\/p>\n

TRP3: Connectedness<\/strong>
\n All new developments outside the central Headington area should be connected to the central area and to the Headington hospitals, university campuses and other major institutions by easy, direct routes for both walking and cycling. Proposed developments should consider provision of connecting alleyways or other pedestrian and cycle routes with adjacent streets or other sites. These routes should be made Public Rights of Way in accordance with the Oxford Local Plan<\/strong>.
\nHeadington has a network of alleyways and connecting paths that enable walking routes to be planned that may be shorter than routes on road, and are quieter and safe from traffic. New developments, whether inside or adjacent to the Headington area, should be connected to this network, and the network should be extended whenever possible, to encourage active, sustainable transport. The County Council has produced a map of walking routes in Headington to encourage this, and Oxford Pedestrians Association is currently working with Oxford Brookes University to extend this map to the whole City, and to enable it to be updated as new connections are made.<\/p>\n

TRP4: Travel Plans<\/strong>
\n All new multi-unit developments, whether institutional or residential, must:<\/strong>
\n\u2666 develop travel plans showing how employees and\/or residents may minimise car usage; and<\/strong>
\n\u2666 provide information for residents and employees on options for active transport to central Headington and to the hospitals and major institutions, together with information on the health and environmental benefits of active transport.<\/strong>
\nAll single-unit developments should state, in the design and access statement, whether car-free alternatives have been considered and, if parking provision is to be made, why the car-free alternative has been rejected.
\nIt is well recognised that travel habits are established early. This Policy aims to ensure that people are made aware of options for (and benefits of) \u2018active transport\u2019 as soon as they locate to new premises as residents or employees. Travel plans should be provided for both small and large developments along with information on the health benefits of alternative transport to encourage people to adopt healthy (and sustainable) transport habits.<\/p>\n

TRP5: Provision for people with disabilities to use active forms of transport<\/strong>
\n All new developments should include active transport provision for people with disabilities (Including wheelchair users and those with other forms of disability.), to make journeys easy by active means.<\/strong>
\nIt is important that there should be no barriers to people with disabilities using active forms (such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters) of transport; otherwise car use can become the norm. Solutions could involve level access within the site (as already required under the Local Plan), but also good, level connections to routes that enable employees or residents to reach central Headington, the Headington hospitals, and other major institutions.<\/p>\n

TRP6: Promotion of Cycling and Walking<\/strong>
\n Proposals for new development comprising more than 3 dwellings should include secure bicycle storage for two bicycles per household, or 75% of bed spaces in shared accommodation.<\/strong>
\nProposals for new employment premises for more than 10 employees should provide secure bicycle storage for 75% of employees, and one internal lockable space where employees who walk and cycle to work can change.
\nThe Headington Neighbourhood Plan recognizes that active steps need to be taken to encourage alternative, non-congesting and non-polluting ways of travelling. Policy TRP6 aims to ensure that any new development above a certain minimum size plays its part in this objective, and that through continuous improvements in conditions for pedestrians and cyclists a network of safe and pleasant walking and cycling routes can be created.
\nAny planning application should identify the route(s) which residents, employees and visitors choosing to walk or cycle can be expected to use to connect with the nearest designated cycle route or public transport, and priority shall be given to using any funds which can be made available through CIL or otherwise to bring such routes up to best-practice standard (for example, but not exclusively, by removal of barriers, removal or relocation of street furniture, segregation of cycle and pedestrian paths, re-levelling and regrading of paths, etc.)<\/p>\n

Community Policies<\/strong><\/p>\n

TRC1: Promoting car Sharing<\/strong>
\n Vehicles which are part of a car club sharing scheme will be exempt from all car parking charges.<\/strong>
\nSince one shared car replaces around 8 private cars, promoting car-sharing is the simplest way to relieve pressure on parking spaces, and therefore exempting them from all car parking charges should actually increase the number of parking spaces.<\/p>\n

TRC2: Improve Cycling Infrastructure and Encourage Cycling<\/strong>
\n Cycle lanes should be upgraded to mandatory by improving their continuity, the clarity of signage, (especially when they meet bus-stops), and improving their maintenance and demarcation. Information on the health benefits of cycling should be provided through schools, libraries and GP practices.<\/strong>
\nA number of improvements to cycling infrastructure in London Road has been suggested at http:\/\/bit.ly\/1Ge3b9G.<\/p>\n

TRC3: Controlling Residential Speeds<\/strong>
\n A universal 20 mph speed limit throughout Headington should be introduced.<\/strong>
\nThis Policy will aim to enhance road safety, simplify enforcement and also remove the proliferation of signage needed by the frequent changes between 20 and 30 mph limits. Speeding was a key issue raised in the Issues and Options Consultation.<\/p>\n

TRC4: Pavement and Road Quality<\/strong>
\n Timely and thorough road and pavement maintenance, particularly on through routes should be carried out to improve their quality. Pavements should be maintained to ensure that they are even, level and unobstructed. The drainage of roads should be improved so that pedestrians are not soaked by passing vehicles.<\/strong>
\nThe lack of road and pavement maintenance was a significant issue raised during the Issues and Options Consultation.<\/p>\n

TRC5: Rationalise Bus Services<\/strong>
\n Promote more orbital bus connectivity between Headington and other parts of Oxford such as Summertown and Cowley. Ensure that new rapid transit buses do not add to the total amount of vehicle traffic along the London Road, and consider originating some long-distance bus services from Thornhill Park and Ride, fed by feeder services.<\/strong>
\nWe propose that the 300, 400 and 500 Park and Ride bus services could serve as feeders to these services from the City centre and other parts of the City, providing through-ticketing to London and airport destinations.<\/p>\n

TRC6: Congestion Charging<\/strong>
\n Full consideration should be given to the costs and benefits of a congestion charge for Oxford as a whole.<\/strong>
\nCongestion charging, or a Road User Charge Zone, aims to reduce traffic congestion and pollution, and improve air quality. It is also aimed at encouraging ‘out-of-hours’ use of the area, creating safer and more attractive streets for everyone.<\/p>\n

TRC7: Reduce School-time Congestion<\/strong>
\n Schools and parents will be encouraged to try alternatives to car transport the ‘school run’.<\/strong>
\nSchools should be incentivised to provide transport alternatives (i.e. www.walkingschoolbus.org, http:\/\/bit.ly\/1m3epGp) and parents to try alternatives to the ‘school run’ (http:\/\/bit.ly\/1ulSf4f), to reduce congestion and pollution in Headington and make school entrance zones safer.<\/p>\n

TRC8: Reduce Commuting by Car<\/strong>
\n Where employers provide parking, they should be encouraged to charge on a per-use basis, rather than through subscription fees payable whether or not the parking space is used.<\/strong>
\nPolicy TRC8 aims to reduce the incentives that commuters have to travel into work by car by reducing the overall costs of using alternative transport.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The Draft Plan can be viewed here but individual policies can be seen below – just scroll down the page or select a policy area\u00a0from this list: Amenities & Green Spaces Character & Identity Housing Education Business & Retail Transport … Continue reading →<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":5177,"menu_order":3,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5219","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5219","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5219"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5219\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5265,"href":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5219\/revisions\/5265"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5177"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/headingtonplan.org.uk\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5219"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}