Neal Coleman announced to lead Oxford Growth Commission

Regeneration expert Neale Coleman CBE has been appointed as Chair of the Oxford Growth Commission with plans to “to accelerate plans for new housing, jobs and infrastructure across the city”. We were disappointed to see that his appointment letter focuses on growth at all costs, referring to “Oxford’s ambitions for economic growth” without a single mention of the environment, let alone climate, nature, health and well-being or even affordable housing. Growth should be directed to where jobs are needed, and must be balanced with other factors including the environment, infrastructure, health & well-being, and genuinely affordable housing – not just market price housing. 

The drive for more housing growth in Oxford and surrounding areas will undoubtedly have an impact on the surrounding rural areas if not done in a strategic way. Oxford’s Green Belt is being put under increasing pressure for the expansion of the city, contrary to public opinion: a survey last year showed that over 80% of Oxfordshire residents believe that the Green Belt around Oxford should remain open and undeveloped, regardless of whether they live in the town or countryside. Development needs to be linked to proper transport planning. Any new housing and employment should encourage active travel, which not only saves carbon but also brings numerous mental and physical health benefits.

Our great university and colleges should continue to generate the ideas that inspire growth, but let them be developed and exploited where jobs, houses, and the infrastructure to support them are needed.