Strategic transport assessment for Cherwell Local Plan Review 2040

Helping Cherwell plan for the future

Cherwell District Council needed a robust evidence base to underpin its Local Plan Review 2040, guiding sustainable growth while meeting requirements for Regulation 18 (public participation in plan preparation) and Regulation 19 (publication of the proposed submission plan and formal representations).

The challenge was multifaceted: accommodating housing allocations, ensuring accessibility to employment sites, and integrating sustainable transport modes, all while addressing climate targets and reducing car dependency. Balancing these priorities demanded a forward-thinking, vision-led approach.

Understanding transport needs

We delivered a Strategic transport assessment designed to support Cherwell’s long-term vision for well-connected communities that meet local housing needs and support sustainability targets. Our methodology embedded transport planning within the spatial strategy, ensuring growth and mobility were considered together. Key elements included:

• Baseline analysis: Comprehensive review of existing transport conditions and connectivity across the district
• Future scenario modelling: Testing development packages for key growth areas - North Oxford, Begbroke, Kidlington, and Islip - under different transport scenarios.
• Journey-time mapping: Evaluating public transport accessibility to housing and employment sites, reinforcing sustainable mobility strategies.
• Policy alignment: Drafting Reg18 and Reg19 documents aligned with national guidance on walkable neighbourhoods and active travel, ensuring technical robustness and compliance.
• Collaborative engagement: Working closely with Cherwell District Council and stakeholders to refine strategies through feedback, maintaining coherence with the overarching vision.

This approach ensured transport was not treated as an afterthought but as a driver of vision-led placemaking.

A sustainable route forward for Cherwell

Our work provided a credible foundation for housing and transport decisions, enabling Cherwell to progress its Local Plan towards adoption. It strengthened the Sustainability Appraisal and demonstrated exceptional circumstances for selective Green Belt release to meet Oxford’s unmet housing need. The methodology we used, and our tailored modelling approach were recognised during the Examination in Public, reinforcing confidence among stakeholders.

By integrating transport and land-use planning, we advanced a plan for sustainable mobility that reduces emissions, improves accessibility, and shapes communities that prioritise active travel and public transport. This project exemplifies how our evidence-based, vision-led planning approach can deliver long-term benefits, ensuring growth aligns with climate objectives and quality of life aspirations.