Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: July 21, 2025

Purpose:

Content: Resolved   (1)            That the following motion, as amended by a friendly amendment, be agreed:   “The Office for National Statistics data suggests that the average house price in Cherwell is £362,000 in December 2024, a 9% rise in cost since December 2023.   The cost of housing means that for many young people the costs are too high to realistically get on the housing ladder. Rents in the District are also extremely high, in December 2024 the average cost was £1215 up from £1121 in December 2023, making even renting in the district unaffordable for many residents   Cherwell District Council has an ever-increasing housing waiting list, which has increased by 10% in the last year alone. The waiting times are significant ranging from 243 days for 1-bedroom properties to 991 days for 4-bedroom properties, leaving many families waiting up to several years for appropriate accommodation.   In the last financial year alone, the council has spent £332,800 on housing residents in temporary accommodation. The need for housing in Cherwell is greater than ever.   This Council resolves that Cherwell District Council declares it has an affordable and social housing emergency and recognizes that the way forward is to focus on housing delivery in the context of the emerging Local Plan 2042, the approved housing strategy 2025-30 and the housing delivery action plan.”   For information, having been proposed, seconded and responded to by the Leader, the motions “Primary Care Facilities in North Oxfordshire” and “Government Review of Local Authority Funding” were referred to Executive.