Planning and building

Delays in validating planning applications and processing public comments

We are currently experiencing delays in validating new planning applications. This means it may take longer than usual for applications to appear as “valid” on our system. We are also experiencing delays in registering public comments and uploading them to the Planning Portal. All comments received will be reviewed, but they may not appear online immediately. Thank you for your patience and understanding while we work to return to normal service.

Cherwell District Council (major planning applications) government designation

Cherwell District Council has been designated by the Secretary of State under Section 62A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 in relation to its handling of major planning applications.

This designation took effect from 15 June 2026 and will remain in place until it is formally withdrawn. 

Further information

Local Plan Review Examination

Cherwell District Council submitted its Cherwell Local Plan Review 2042 to the Secretary of State for Independent Examination on 31 July 2025. Check back here for latest news and updates.

All you need to know about the examination process.