The Executive Director of Regeneration and Housing submitted a report (previously circulated, now appended) which sought approval for the Diamond Place Development Supplementary Planning Document.

Cllr Hollingsworth, Board Member for Planning, Transport and Regulatory Service presented the report. He said that this document was intended to provide context and detail to the existing policies (such as SP14) and that they were intended as guidance to shape the plans for the development of Diamond Place.  He stressed that the proposals in the document were not definitive and did not preclude any options that would emerge in more detailed planning discussions.  

In response to the points raised by Cllr Gant he said that:

·         The concerns about the Diamond Place / Banbury road junction were recognised and a range of options would be carefully considered

·         Public open space would be available for all user groups

·         Inclusion of other “health services” such as dental practices would be welcome

·         All OCC housing policies would apply to the Diamond Place development

·         The valued contribution of the North Oxfordshire Association Community Centre was recognised by the Council.  NOA would be fully involved in the on-going discussions regarding the proposed relocation of the centre to ensure that there was no risk to services or reputation.  

The City Executive Board resolved to:

1.    ADOPT the Diamond Place Development Supplementary Planning Document;

2.    DELEGATE AUTHORITY TO the Head of Planning and Regulatory to make any necessary editorial corrections to the document prior to publication in consultation with the Board Member for Planning, Transport and Regulatory Services.