Witney News - Help shape the place you’re living in

Help shape the place you’re living in

Residents in Oxfordshire will soon be asked their views about council services in a survey to monitor public services. The survey is a government requirement and will be sent to 14,000 randomly selected residents across the county.

Cllr Barry Norton, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Being well informed of residents’ views about our services is very important to us. It enables us to respond quickly and effectively by developing and improving our services wherever we can. Carrying out such a comprehensive survey with other councils is cost effective and I am sure this is appreciated by our taxpayers.”

The closing date is 19 December. Anyone requiring assistance to complete the survey should contact MRUK on 0117 987 2848 or email [email protected].

Some residents in West Oxfordshire will also be surveyed as part of the planning policy process to help determine future housing needs. Around 8,400 surveys are going to home owners, people who rent privately, and tenants of local housing associations.

Cllr Jill Dunsmore, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing is urging people to complete the survey. She said, “It is vital that our housing planning policies reflect housing needs in the District. It is important that both people in housing need and those who are not participate so that we get the full picture.

“Evidence is gathered from a range of sources and this survey provides detail on factors such as the types of housing required, people’s financial means and whether they are looking to rent or buy.

“Although the survey covers all sectors, because of population demographics we are particularly interested in finding out more about older people’s needs.”

The closing date to return forms for the Housing Survey is 22 October 2008. Anyone who would like further information should contact Housing Services at the District Council on 01993 861010.