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  • We are changing key software we use for Waste, Envirocrime, Environmental Protection, Private Sector Housing, Community Safety and Food and Workplace Safety  − therefore, it may take a little longer to respond to some enquiries and some of our online forms may not be available for a short period.  We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. 
Beat the heat in the Vale

A guide to services and advice from the council, as well as local and national organisations, to help during the summer months.

Important changes to planning, land charges and mapping services

Planning system now live! Find out more.

Latest news

Montage of locations around Oxfordshire

June 29, 2026

Heard of local government reorganisation? How does it work?

Local government reorganisation (LGR) might sound complicated, but at its heart, it’s simply about redesigning how councils work so services are easier to access, more efficient and more financially sustainable.

solar panels on roof

June 29, 2026

Wantage Leisure Centre is fit for the future

Wantage Leisure Centre is running on renewable energy following the completion of a multi-million-pound energy efficiency programme which installed air source heat pumps, solar panels and extensive insulation.

a picture of a pint glass on a pub bar

June 26, 2026

Vale Cabinet to consider support package for local pubs and rural businesses

A one-off business rates top-up could help ease the financial pressures facing some of the much-loved local businesses at the heart of our communities.

Montage of locations around Oxfordshire

June 23, 2026

What happens after the government approves a local government reorganisation proposal?

Once the government decides to approve a local government reorganisation (LGR) proposal, the real work begins. While the decision itself is a major milestone, it’s only the start of a long, carefully managed transition designed to make sure services continue smoothly and residents are supported every step of the way.

an alarm clock on a bin

June 23, 2026

Bin days staying the same, but collection times may change across South Oxfordshire and the Vale

Residents across South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse are being reminded to put their bins out by 6am on their scheduled collection day, ahead of route changes starting later this month.

June 19, 2026

Councils are encouraged by the results of their tenants’ satisfaction survey

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have carried out a satisfaction survey among their tenants for the first time since they re-registered as social housing providers and the results are encouraging.

Map showing proposed FSA area

June 18, 2026

Joint statement from South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils on local devolution

The leaders of South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have reaffirmed their commitment to working constructively and collaboratively with all partners and the government on discussions around a new strategic authority that would cover the Thames Valley.

A decorative image of the Uffington White Horse from the air

June 18, 2026

Leader’s blog

The latest blog from our council leader on her thoughts about Swindon and a possible Thames Valley strategic authority.

June 17, 2026

Park Yoga proves a hit with record numbers rolling out their mats  

Hundreds of people across South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse are rolling out their yoga mats and making the most of their local green spaces, with this year’s Park Yoga sessions already attracting record numbers.  

Montage of locations around Oxfordshire

June 16, 2026

What is local government reorganisation and why should you care?

Local government is the part of the public sector that delivers the everyday services we all rely on – things like roads, libraries, housing, recycling, social care, parks and community support.