Village Design Statement

A Village Design Statement (VDS) is a supplementary planning document prepared by the Parish Council and residents. Its aim is to present design guidelines that can describe and preserve the unique character of Freeland. It helps to ensure that any development in the future is sympathetic to the features in Freeland most treasured by the residents, in an effort to ensure that the essential character of the village can be preserved.

When adopted by West Oxfordshire District Council (WODC) as a supplementary planning document, it will become a material consideration when WODC determines any planning applications within the village. The VDS will also serve as a reference point for any householder considering making alterations to their house who may wish to have guidance on the best way to do this in keeping with local characteristics.

The Freeland VDS has been produced by the village VDS working party in conjunction with Freeland Parish Council. Consultation took place on a village wide basis. This included discussion with groups of residents – for example at the Annual Parish Meeting, but the main consultation took place through an online and paper survey distributed to all households in June/July 2024. A total of 170 surveys were completed and returned.