A COUNCIL leader is backing a scheme that could unlock funding to provide thousands of homes and deliver major infrastructure upgrades in key areas.

Cllr James Mills, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, believes accessing the Housing Infrastructure Fund will be the key to the delivery of the county’s needs and future potential as a world-class economy.

The priority scheme under consideration involves a £135.4m bid for upgrades to the A40 which would be in addition to existing plans identified in the A40 Long Term Strategy.

This would support the delivery of more than 10,000 homes in Witney, Carterton and around Eynsham.

“The current state of the A40 means it is impossible to build the homes we need without adding to the problems that many already experience every day,” said Cllr Mills.

“We are working closely with Oxfordshire County Council to ensure a compelling bid is submitted to the Government that will enable us to win significant funding to allow sustainable development against a backdrop of a growing population and housing demand.”