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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 12
Oxford News By Hana Edition 12
Oxford Outlook: Seeing red
Mark Skipworth
June 26, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 12
Oxford Outlook: Seeing red
RAF Brize Norton is in my ’hood. I regularly drive past it on my way to the local builders’ merchants. Despite its importance as “the primary hub for the UK’s strategic and tactical transport” – thanks ChatGPT – it’s always had a rather quaint feel about it, not least due to the countless plane spotters who gather daily at vantage points around its eight-mile perimeter fence hoping to catch a glimpse of a Globemaster or Atlas transporter or the occasional Chinook helicopter.
But as we are constantly reminded, we live in challenging times. Now I know I am not alone in having wondered when I am travelling alongside the base, whether its perimeter fence adequately serves as a defence of the realm when sections of it are little more than wooden fences similar to those used in home gardens?
And so we read in several reports in this week’s Oxford newsletter how activists from Palestine Action broke into the RAF base in Oxfordshire and spray-painted two Voyager military planes red, potentially causing millions of pounds worth of damage.
In response, Thames Valley police are leading a criminal investigation into the attack while Home Secretary Yvette Cooper says she will proscribe the group under anti-terror laws. Meanwhile, Luke Pollard, the armed forces minister, declares that a similar incident “must never happen again”.
We can all sleep well in our beds once more. Whether or not the Voyager planes in question have been used in support of Israel’s latest military actions – and the MoD says not - the breach of security at Brize is nothing short of lamentable.
True, large sections of the RAF base are protected by perimeter fences made of metal topped with conspicuous barbed wire. But there are obvious weaker sections – some with smaller fences and no barbed wire, others covered in foliage or with trees in front of them, according to reports.
The MoD says it was already reviewing security at its military bases across the country. Let’s hope the review is completed and any necessary improvements made before the UK takes delivery of 12 new fighter jets, announced earlier this week by the government, for they can be equipped with US-made nuclear bombs.
From your correspondent in the nearby village of Much-Wingeover – roger and out!
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
credit: https://all.accor.com/
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Databox
Oxford has a relatively favourable crime and safety profile, with an annual crime rate of 29.3 crimes per 1,000 people, which is below the national crime rate
The city ranks as having the 21st lowest crime rate out of 99 postcode areas in England and Wales
Violent crime accounts for 36% of all reported crimes, with 18,200 violent crimes reported, representing a 4.6% year-on-year decrease
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Hyper-local news articles
Cost of damage from Palestine Action attacks at RAF Brize Norton will total 'at least £30 million'
LBC · June 21, 2025
Two Pro-Palestine activists from Palestine Action caused an estimated £30 million in damage at RAF Brize Norton by vandalising Airbus Voyager aircraft, sparking plans by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to ban the group and introduce new policing powers to curb activist protests in the UK. The incident has reignited debates over protest rights amid growing tensions related to the Gaza conflict.
BBC looks at the fence that activists breached to enter RAF Brize Norton
BBC · June 20, 2025
A security review is being conducted at UK military bases following a break-in by pro-Palestinian activists at RAF Brize Norton, where they vandalised military planes with red paint. The group Palestine Action claimed responsibility, asserting they had rendered the aircraft "out of service," although no operations were disrupted.
Defence chiefs were warned three weeks ago that RAF Brize Norton could be targeted
Mail Online · June 22, 2025
Pro-Palestinian protesters breached security at RAF Brize Norton, vandalising RAF Voyager aircraft just weeks after a Strategic Defence Review warned of vulnerabilities at the base. The incident has raised serious concerns among military officials about preparedness against activist actions and potential threats.
Oxford congestion charge consultation opens
BBC · June 23, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council is proposing a £5 congestion charge in Oxford to address traffic issues caused by the long-term closure of Botley Road for construction, sparking significant opposition from residents. If implemented this autumn, the scheme would last up to two years, with exemptions for specific groups including carers and blue badge holders.
Reopened Oxfordshire pub named best in the UK at national awards
BBC · June 26, 2025
The Bull, a 15th-century pub in Charlbury, Oxfordshire, has been crowned the UK's National Pub of the Year, celebrated for its blend of traditional charm and modern service. Since reopening in July 2023, it has gained acclaim for its exceptional food and dedicated young team, fostering a strong local following.
High Court to hear judicial review on Oxfordshire reservoir plan
BBC · June 25, 2025
The High Court is set to review a challenge against Thames Water's £2.2 billion South East Strategic Reservoir Option near Abingdon, which aims to meet rising water demand but faces opposition from local groups concerned about ecological impact and public funding priorities. Despite claims of enhanced biodiversity and recreation opportunities, critics advocate for investing in sewage cleanup and water reuse instead.
Oxford University Hospitals agrees to meet group critical of OUH maternity care
This is Oxfordshire · June 24, 2025
Families failed by OUH Maternity Services are calling for an investigation into Oxford University Hospitals' maternity care, citing serious harm to over 500 families. This push aligns with a national review of the worst-performing maternity services in England, as officials stress the need for systemic improvements amidst ongoing concerns about accountability and care quality.
Oxford County Council
Thames towpath section in Oxford to close for repairs
BBC · June 23, 2025
The Thames towpath in Oxford will be closed for repairs from early July to late September due to riverbank erosion, with extensive reconstruction and piling work planned to enhance structural integrity. Oxfordshire County Council emphasises the project's significance for maintaining this popular sustainable route and recreational space, urging users to remain patient during the improvements.
Oxford Canal boaters want change after two more deaths
This is Oxfordshire · June 22, 2025
The Oxford Canal community is mourning the loss of three beloved boaters, highlighting the urgent need for a local boat repair facility. A petition has been launched to save the Jericho Wharf site, aiming to establish a community boatyard that would improve living conditions and safety for boaters in the area.
Sir Mo Farah collects honorary Oxford degree
BBC · June 25, 2025
Four-time Olympic champion Sir Mo Farah received an honorary degree from the University of Oxford during its Encaenia ceremony, alongside BBC journalist Clive Myrie and broadcaster Lord Melvyn Bragg. The event, presided over by newly inaugurated Chancellor Lord Hague, celebrated individuals whose remarkable contributions have significantly impacted society.
Royal Mail 'failing countless people', Oxfordshire MPs say
Yahoo News · June 25, 2025
Liberal Democrat MPs in Oxfordshire have criticized Royal Mail for failing to meet delivery targets, with only 67.9% of first-class mail arriving on time in local postcodes. They are calling for accountability from Ofcom, while Royal Mail acknowledges the issue and cites nationwide performance of 92.3% for timely deliveries.
Oxfordshire County Council says funding of SEND services 'unsustainable'
BBC · June 20, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council has reported a £100m budget shortfall for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services, calling the current system "unsustainable" and urging for urgent reforms. With families feeling a "tangible sense of helplessness," the council warns that the SEND high needs block deficit could soar to £100m by March 2026, highlighting a national crisis in support for children with SEND.
Oxford City Council investigated over asbestos in town hall
BBC · June 24, 2025
Oxford City Council is under investigation for failing to properly manage asbestos in public buildings, following an HSE inspection that led to an improvement notice. The council has since complied with the notice by enhancing its asbestos management strategies and revisiting previously inaccessible areas.
Credit: BBC
Apprentice star opens her Oxfordshire home to launch new childcare campaign
This is Oxfordshire · June 24, 2025
Michelle Niziol, a former contestant on BBC's "The Apprentice," is launching a campaign in Bicester today (Wednesday) to press for making childcare costs tax-deductible for self-employed parents, highlighting that 90% of working women support this change. She argues that the current system unfairly disadvantages self-employed individuals, especially women, and hampers economic growth by treating childcare expenses differently for employed versus self-employed parents.
Oxfordshire councillor arrested over 'domestic abuse'
This is Oxfordshire · June 24, 2025
Cllr Adam Clements, a Liberal Democrat council member for Milton under Wychwood, was arrested on June 14 for alleged coercive and controlling behaviour. He has been suspended from the party as Thames Valley Police continue their investigation, while he maintains his innocence and is cooperating with authorities.
Student beekeeper finds 'bee paradise' in the heart of Oxford
BBC · June 21, 2025
David Maxen, a 23-year-old cancer science student at Oxford, has created a thriving "bee paradise" at Merton College's Great Meadow, where he cares for tens of thousands of bees. With dreams of harvesting honey twice a year and sharing it at local markets, Maxen names his queen bees after significant people in his life, blending his passion for beekeeping with community spirit.
Nocturne Live ends Blenheim Palace shows after 10 years
BBC · June 24, 2025
Nocturne Live Oxfordshire, the outdoor music festival held at Blenheim Palace, will not return in 2026 after a decade of memorable performances from stars like Kylie Minogue and Elton John. Organisers expressed their gratitude to the historic venue and hinted at exciting new developments on the horizon.
Police appeal for information after theft of vintage motorbikes, model trains and boats from Abingdon home
BBC News · June 26, 2025
Thieves targeted a 90-year-old engineering enthusiast in Abingdon, stealing cherished collectibles including model boats, vintage motorbikes, and model steam trains on May 4. Thames Valley Police are appealing for information, particularly about the stolen vintage motorbikes that may be advertised for sale online in Oxfordshire.
Bicester Motion fire: Charity football match in honour of victims
BBC · June 22, 2025
A charity football match on July 20 will honor firefighters Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler, along with Dave Chester, who tragically lost their lives in a Bicester fire. Organized by Ardley United, the event features Oxford United legends and aims to raise funds for the Firefighters Charity while uniting the community.
Property news
Cotswolds streets with fast and slow property sales
Cotswold Journal · June 25, 2025
Homes on Bridge Street, OX2, sell in just 48 days, far quicker than the national average of 147 days, with other speedy areas like Cranmore Avenue and Edgeway Road also attracting quick sales. In contrast, some Cotswolds locations, such as Eastbank Drive, see properties lingering on the market for an average of 704 days, highlighting the varied pace of real estate across regions.
The quiet revolution that began in an Oxford home Heriot-Watt University - June 23, 2025 In 1995, architect Sue Roaf pioneered the UK's first integrated solar roof in north Oxford, significantly reducing carbon emissions and setting a precedent for sustainable architecture. As she celebrates its 30th anniversary, her work continues to inspire advancements in solar technology, aligning with Heriot-Watt University's commitment to a net-zero future and the upcoming requirement for solar panels in all new homes by 2027. |
Blenheim appeal sways commercial occupiers UK Property Forums - June 25, 2025 Blenheim Estate Homes' Park View development in Woodstock welcomes its first two tenants, Sula Clinic and Alex Crêpes, with completion of all 12 commercial units expected by Spring 2026. The development boasts dedicated parking and a tranquil atmosphere, aiming to foster a vibrant community. |
Beyoncé and Jay-Z 'moving into mansion' in the Cotswolds Oxford Mail - June 21, 2025 Beyoncé and Jay-Z were spotted helicoptering to a 58-acre property near Wigginton in Oxfordshire as they contemplate a move to the Cotswolds, coinciding with Beyoncé's six-show run in London. While local residents are on celebrity watch, doubts linger about the couple's long-term commitment to the area amid rumours of seeking a country retreat close to fellow celebrities, the Beckhams. |
Liquidators seeking buyers for assets and IP of Oxford medtech firm Isansys Lifecare Limited, a pioneering medical technology firm known for its patient monitoring systems, has entered creditors’ voluntary liquidation due to ongoing financial struggles worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Founded in 2010 and recognized for its innovative wireless wearable sensors, the company is now seeking buyers for its assets, including valuable intellectual property and R&D capabilities. |
Nationwide makes huge change for thousands of customers This is Oxfordshire - June 25, 2025 Nationwide has unveiled new mortgage options to assist first-time buyers and the new build sector, including loans with just a 5% deposit and an extended offer period of nine months for new builds. These initiatives aim to alleviate affordability challenges and boost homeownership amidst declining new build sales. |
West Oxfordshire: House prices have doubled since 2005 Witney Gazette - June 22, 2025 House prices in West Oxfordshire have soared by 84% since 2005, far surpassing both national trends and inflation, prompting local officials to call for affordable housing initiatives to support long-term residents and retain young families in the area. Councillor Hugo Ashton emphasizes that addressing housing shortages will be a key focus as the council revises its Local Plan, with a commitment to proactive community development. |
Bicester's most and least expensive streets revealed This is Oxfordshire - June 23, 2025 In Bicester, Hunt Close tops the list of high-value streets with an average sold price of £671,666, while Braeburn House represents the lower end at just £111,312. Notably, a property on Brashfield House recently fetched an impressive £995,000, highlighting the diverse property market in the area. |
What’s on in Oxford this weekend?
All photos are credited to Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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