A new planning framework for Oxford's West End will come into effect on Monday in the hope of regenerating the area with shops, homes and restaurants.

Oxford City Council's formal adoption of the West End Area Action Plan will mean planning applications for the area will be assessed against the policies and proposals laid out in the document.

The scheme is designed to upgrade and expand the area's social and leisure facilities while remaining considerate to the area's heritage.

Colin Cook, board member for city development, said: "This is an exciting time for Oxford. The west end is badly in need of regeneration and the formal adoption of the area action plan brings good news for the city centre.

"Residents, workers and visitors to the city will soon be able to enjoy relaxing in new open spaces, better shopping facilities, improved riverside walks and new networks of cycle paths and pedestrian routes, to name but a few of the positive things planned for the area.

For more information, visit www.oxfordwestend.co.uk