The Community and Strategic Planning Office plays a central role in the planning and management of new development in the County. The Office forecasts population and land needs, develops land use and resource policies, conducts research and prepares by-laws. Through the guidance of the County Official Plan, each development proposal is evaluated according to its compatibility with adjacent land uses as well as Oxford County’s social, economic, heritage and natural environments. The Office assists area municipalities in providing specialized programs such as nutrient management and groundwater protection.