A 'GREAT OPPORTUNITY' to steer Headington's future took a step closer after city councillors paved the way for a referendum over future development in the area.

The Headington Neighbourhood Plan was endorsed at an Oxford City Council executive board meeting on Thursday and the process towards launching a referendum to make the ultimate decision has now begun.

Among the proposals put forward in the wide ranging document is the protection of allotment space, the creation of a Headington Business Association and an increase in green spaces.

Headington councillor Ruth Wilkinson said following the city council vote: "It’s a great opportunity for people to get involved in Headington’s future.

"The neighbourhood plan contains ideas and comments from people who live, work or study in the Headington Neighbourhood Area.

"It has two distinct parts – local planning policies that people have asked for that applicants must take notice of when building new developments, and lots of exciting community projects people think would make Headington an even better place to live."

The councillor also urged people to get involved and register so that they are eligible to vote in the May referendum.

She added: "The neighbourhood plan is all about local people getting involved, agreeing what’s great about living in the area, coming up with ideas to make it even better, and making those ideas happen."

Chairman of the Headington Neighbourhood Forum Mike Ratcliffe said of the plan: "Our quarter of Oxford is a busy place.

"It is home to thousands; a diverse community, many who've lived here all their lives but also a sizeable number who have moved here to retire, work or study.

"It is a place of work for thousands; in world-leading research institutes but also in a range of small and medium sized businesses.

"It is a place of education for thousands; the schools and universities in Headington are equipping people for life in the 21st century.

"Because Headington is busy, many people have been concerned that the right balance hasn't always been struck. We think this is in part because the various strategies and plans of city and county don't focus on Headington or connect with those who live, work or study here.

"In proposing this plan, we are seeking to strike that balance - policies to make Headington a better place."

The plan sets out local development for the area up to 2032 and includes areas ear-marked for new houses, shops and offices. It also outlines the design and look of new buildings in various areas.

Neighbourhood plans provide the community with the opportunity to allocate land for particular purposes and to prepare policies which will be used in determining planning applications, and was first introduced under the Localism Act 2011.

The referendum will be held on May 4 and will be paid for by the city council.