Public engagement over plans for up to 70 affordable homes for young people in Witney is planned to take place this Summer.
West Oxfordshire District Council has earmarked part of the council-owned Woodford Way car park for the scheme of one and two-bedroom flats for social rent, part of a wider effort to provide affordable homes for locals.
The site is near shops, GP surgeries, public transport and other services.
Cllr Geoff Saul, executive member for housing and social care, said: “In the current climate, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for local people to stay living in the area they know, work in, and have connections to.
“House prices are now more than 10 times the average salary, and demand for genuinely affordable homes is increasing.
“In past public consultations, residents have told us there aren’t enough affordable options in the district that meet their needs. This scheme responds to that by providing high quality, sustainable housing in a central, accessible location.”
Council leader Cllr Andy Graham said: “We are acting now because the need is urgent, with families, individuals and key workers in West Oxfordshire being priced out of the place they call home.
“This scheme is about delivering on what we’ve heard from residents: that we need more truly affordable homes – particularly social rent – in the right locations, with strong links to services and the community.
“The Woodford Way site has long been identified for housing, and by using council land, we can make sure this development brings lasting benefit to the community and helps strengthen the town centre.”
A council review of parking suggests other car parks can absorb the 125 spaces displaced by the scheme.
The council is working with a local housing association and Homes England to take the scheme forward and a planning application is expected after consultation is complete.
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