Detailed planning application submitted for new Community Centre in Blackbird Leys following local input

Peabody has submitted a detailed planning application for the new Blackbird Leys Community Centre to the Local Planning Authority, following extensive consultation with local residents.

Published: 30/10/2024

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In October 2023, planning consent for the Community Centre was granted in ‘outline’ as part of the wider Blackbird Leys redevelopment, being delivered in partnership with Oxford City Council.

Since then, the local community has been feeding into the planning application, sharing their views on what they would like to see from the new Community Centre and public space surrounding it.

This October, partners Peabody and Oxford City Council hosted an exhibition event to showcase the finalised plans to residents.

The application has been submitted by Peabody, the not-for-profit housing association, with the centre to be owned by Oxford City Council. The application is expected to go before the planning committee in Spring 2025.

If approved, the Community Centre will be built as part of the first phase of the regeneration project, which will also see the delivery of 196 new affordable homes for the community.

With a variety of office spaces, communal seating areas and three large halls, the new Community Centre is expected to cater for up to 800 visitors. Plans for the public space include a number of play areas for children and young people, including a rain garden and accessible trampoline. The public space will also feature art murals, with the opportunity for residents to get involved in their creation following the planning decision.

The Community Centre will form part of the district centre, alongside other high-quality facilities including green spaces and shops, as well as improved roads with a segregated cycle lane.

With the plans submitted, the local community is one step closer to gaining a modern, inclusive space that reflects their needs and aspirations. If approved, construction is expected to begin quickly.

Simon Barry, Regional Managing Director, Development at Peabody, said: “We’ve talked to many residents and know how important this Community Centre is to everyone. We want it to be a place that offers great facilities and fun activities for all, while being a well-designed space where people can enjoy spending time with friends, family, and others in the community. Thank you to everyone who has shared their thoughts and ideas, and we're looking forward to making these plans a reality"

Councillor Linda Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing, Oxford City Council said: “This Community Centre will become the new beating heart of Blackbird Leys – a place for people to come together and for the community to grow stronger. The building will be a modern, flexible, welcoming space for all residents – whether they are seeking advice and support, looking to learn something new, enjoy a regular activity or celebrate and have a good time.

"Every element has been shaped by residents throughout the design process, it will be a centre residents can be proud of, and I can’t wait to see the positive impact it will start to create when it opens."