MP resolves issues for Sikh community over planning barriers
04/06/2025
The community are hoping to use a Thorpe Close unit as their Gurdwara
Banbury’s MP Sean Woodcock has stepped in to support the town’s Sikh community after they spoke to him about difficulties progressing their planning application to use a commercial unit on Thorpe Close in Banbury as their place of worship.
Their current Gurdwara on West Street has been used for over 30 years, but it no longer caters to their needs.
The community found a suitable location at an existing commercial unit in Thorpe Close and submitted a “change of use” planning application, but said a lack of communication from Cherwell District Council left them feeling overlooked, marginalised, and unable to find a solution.
Mr Woodcock has now arranged for the council to dedicate specific officer time to communicate with members of the Sikh community to help them navigate planning regulations.
He said: “I visited the current Gurdwara in April and saw for myself how the space was unsuitable for their growing community. I understand their frustrations at the lack of progress in recent years.
“I am encouraged that Cherwell District Council have taken onboard the suggestions to dedicate a single officer to the case and to provide the community with officer time to discuss their needs. I hope this will lead to a quick resolution, allowing the Sikh community in Banbury to practice their faith in a space that meets their needs.”
Banbury FM has contacted Cherwell District Council offering them the chance to comment on the situation.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
