Oxford News by HANA - Edition 13

Oxford Outlook: Taxing questions

First a congestion charge was proposed for Oxford; now there’s talk of a city “tourist tax”.

A £2-a-night levy on overnight visitors staying in a hotel or college room may soon be imposed within a so-called “Accommodation Business Improvement District” (ABID).

It is estimated the scheme, which would be run by Oxford’s hotels and colleges, could generate £2.5m a year, the funds used, it is claimed, to “improve” the city not only for tourists but also for those who live and work there, members of a city council committee heard at a meeting on Tuesday.

According to a BBC report in this week’s Oxford newsletter, about seven million people visited the historic city last year, supporting about 40,000 jobs across the county as a whole.

Similar schemes operate elsewhere in the UK, including Manchester and Liverpool; however, a levy in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole has been postponed.

In Oxford, as well as an estimated 2,300 hotel rooms being considered under the scheme, the university’s colleges have about 8,000 rooms available at various times of the year, with a predicted annual ABID contribution of £1.2m.

On the face of it, the financial case for a “tourist tax” for Oxford is compelling. But what are the specific “improvements” from raking in these extra millions that will benefit residents and workers as well as tourists? I think we should be told.

In any event, are the burghers overlooking a simple point if the levy goes ahead – namely, that visitors to this esteemed seat of learning will conclude they are no longer welcome unless they pay through the nose?

Add to this “tourist tax” the proposed congestion charge, and there is a danger Oxford is moving to a tipping point when tourists will simply move on to better value-for-money destinations. Goose and golden egg spring to mind.

• How humbling to read in a BBC report ahead of the British Transplant Games, the inspiring stories of young people who have been given life through organ donation. They will be taking part in this Olympic-style sporting event, which is being held in and around Oxford for the first time. About 1,000 participants who have received organ transplants are expected to descend on the city later this month – their ages ranging from three to eighty-plus – to compete against one another across 25 different sports. The event not only encourages transplant recipients to lead active lives but also helps to promote organ donation. Worthy causes, indeed.

  Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor

Databox

• Oxford’s cultural attractions have seen remarkable growth, with Oxford University Gardens, Libraries and Museums attracting more than 3.3 million visitors in 2023, a 20% increase from 2.7 million in 2022

• The Ashmolean Museum alone saw 900,277 visitors in 2023, making it the most visited attraction in Oxfordshire after Blenheim Palace

• Three university sites ranked among the UK’s top 50 attractions, with the Ashmolean Museum ranking 34th, Bodleian Libraries 39th, and Oxford University Museum of Natural History 47th

Scroll down for property news and things to do in Oxford this weekend…

Oxford News

Oxford's overnight visitors could face 'tourist tax'

BBC News · July 2, 2025

Oxford City Council is exploring a new Accommodation Business Improvement District (ABID) to introduce a £2 nightly surcharge on hotel and college room rates, aiming to generate £2.5 million annually for reinvestment in the local tourism economy. This initiative seeks to enhance the visitor experience while also benefiting residents, workers, and students in the city.

Read more at BBC News (1 min)

Oxfordshire recipients of organ donation say it is 'life giving’ gift

BBC News · June 29, 2025

Three organ transplant recipients, Jack Beever, Blossom Martin, and James Lawton, share their transformative experiences ahead of the British Transplant Games, celebrating the life-changing impact of organ donation. The event, running from July 31 to August 3 in Oxford, showcases more than a thousand participants competing in various sports, highlighting the joy and vitality restored through transplantation.

Read more at BBC News (2 mins)

Four charged over break-in at RAF Brize Norton

BBC News · July 3, 2025

Four individuals have been charged with conspiracy following a break-in at RAF Brize Norton, where they allegedly vandalized two Voyager aircraft, causing £7 million in damages. The group Palestine Action has claimed responsibility for the incident, and the suspects are scheduled to appear in court soon.

Read more at BBC News (1 min)

Court backlog 'main issue' hampering justice, says police chief

BBC News · June 29, 2025

Jason Hogg, chief constable of Thames Valley Police, has called for criminal cases involving violence against women and girls to be resolved within two weeks, as victims may face delays until 2027. The Ministry of Justice acknowledges the backlog, emphasizing that "justice delayed is justice denied," amidst alarming statistics showing a woman is killed by a man in the UK every three days.

Read more at BBC News (2 mins)

Eynsham park and ride to launch in 2027

BBC News · July 2, 2025

An unused 850-space park and ride facility in Eynsham, Oxfordshire, is expected to become operational by 2027 as Oxfordshire County Council seeks planning approval for a new junction connecting it to the A40. The £32 million project aims to enhance accessibility by introducing dedicated bus lanes and improving walking and cycling infrastructure, promoting sustainable transport options.

Read more at BBC News (1 min)

Florence Pugh named favourite to be next James Bond girl

This is Oxfordshire · July 2, 2025

Florence Pugh, the acclaimed British actress known for her roles in Little Women, Don’t Worry Darling, and Oppenheimer, is rumoured to be joining the cast of the next James Bond film as a Bond girl, with odds of 11/8. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, the upcoming film will introduce a new 007 following Daniel Craig's departure.

Read more at This is Oxfordshire (2 mins)

Banbury company makes history with electric aircraft flight

BBC News · July 3, 2025

Skyfly Technologies made history by completing Europe's first airfield-to-airfield flight with a fully electric eVTOL aircraft, the Axe, piloted by Dr. William Brooks. The successful test journey from Turweston Aerodrome to Bicester Airfield showcased a significant leap in sustainable aviation technology, with the outbound flight taking 12 minutes and the return trip only 8 minutes.

Read more at BBC News (1 min)

Oxford Spires Academy school bans smartphones in favour of basic phones

BBC News · July 1, 2025

Oxford Spires Academy will ban smartphones for Year 7 to 11 students starting in September, allowing only basic phones to foster a calmer learning environment and combat mobile phone addiction. This initiative joins a growing trend among UK secondary schools aimed at enhancing student mental health and academic performance, with significant parental support for delaying smartphone access for children.

Read more at BBC News (5 mins)

Witney named most expensive place for a pint in the UK

Oxford Mail · July 1, 2025

Witney has topped the UK chart for the most expensive pint at £7, surpassing London by 50p and reflecting a significant rise in beer prices across the nation. Alongside this, dining costs are also notable, with a three-course meal for two averaging £65 nationwide, but hitting £80 in London.

Read more at Oxford Mail (2 mins)

How Oxfordshire MPs voted on welfare reforms amendment

This is Oxfordshire · July 2, 2025

MP Rachael Maskell's amendment to the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill was defeated, leading to the government abandoning key welfare reforms, including a review of PIP eligibility. Amidst party rebellion and criticism from Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the remaining reforms as beneficial for individuals and the economy.

Read more at This is Oxfordshire (3 mins)

New services planned to reduce hospital pressures

BBC News · July 1, 2025

Oxfordshire health officials are launching a new initiative under the £80.6 million Better Care Fund to enhance home and community treatment options, aiming to reduce avoidable hospital admissions. This plan includes improving access to community services and expanding urgent response systems to provide hospital-level care locally.

Read more at BBC News (2 mins)

Bicester Motion fire: Injured firefighter released from hospital

BBC June 26, 2025

A firefighter seriously injured in the devastating May 15 blaze at Bicester Motion business park has been discharged from the hospital over a month after the incident, which tragically claimed the lives of three firefighters. An inquest into their deaths is set to resume on November 25, while Oxfordshire County Council continues to support the injured and their families.

Read more at BBC (2 mins)

Aunt Sally champion claims historic fourth title

BBC News · June 29, 2025

Roger Goodall, 55, made history as the first four-time champion in the Aunt Sally World Championship Open Singles, triumphing over 91 competitors in a thrilling event marked by nail-biting sudden-death shoot-outs. He described his victory as both "great" and "nerve-wracking," showcasing the intense spirit of this traditional pub game.

Read more at BBC News (1 min)

West Hanney man's brain tumour grew 'for more than a decade'

BBC · June 30, 2025

Charlie Broadhurst, a father from West Hanney, faced a life-altering diagnosis of a brain tumour after experiencing a seizure, leading to two surgeries and ongoing treatment. Despite the challenges, he remains positive and focused on cherishing time with his family while advocating for increased research into brain tumours, which are a leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

Read more at BBC (3 mins)

Cotswolds locals say town 'ruined' by Jeremy Clarkson

Cotswold Journal · June 27, 2025

Chipping Norton, a charming town known for its celebrity visitors, is grappling with rising housing demand and strained infrastructure, leading to local backlash against a proposed development of 350 homes. Residents are concerned about increased property prices and inadequate amenities, while tourists express disappointment over limited attractions during their visits.

Read more at Cotswold Journal (3 mins)

Netflix release trailer for Oxford University romance film

This is Oxfordshire · July 1, 2025

"My Oxford Year," a film adaptation of Julia Whelan's bestselling novel, follows Anna De La Vega, played by Sofia Carson, as she navigates her dreams and unexpected romance with local Jamie, portrayed by Corey Mylchreest, at Oxford University. Premiering on Netflix on August 1, the film promises to capture how "one year can change everything."

Read more at This is Oxfordshire (2 mins)

Oxfordshire County Council launches survey on its reorganisation plans

BBC · June 26, 2025

Oxfordshire County Council is seeking public input on its proposal to establish a single unitary authority aimed at saving taxpayers £27 million annually, with the potential to simplify services and enhance community engagement. The survey, open until July 27, comes amid discussions about restructuring local governance in light of the government's plans to replace district councils with larger mayoral combined authorities by December 2024.

Read more at BBC (2 mins)

South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse Councils' HQ approved

Bbc · July 3, 2025

After more than a decade since their previous headquarters was destroyed by fire, South Oxfordshire District Council and Vale of White Horse District Council have received approval for a new four-storey building near Didcot Parkway railway station. The councils, currently operating from temporary locations, submitted their planning application in August 2023, with several amendments made before final approval.

Read more at Bbc (1 min)

Ideas sought to improve centre of Wantage, birthplace of King Alfred

BBC News · June 30, 2025

Wantage in Oxfordshire is seeking public input to enhance the Market Place with a focus on active travel and accessibility through a four-week survey, running until July 22. While local businesses voice concerns over parking challenges, especially on market days, the town aims to create a healthier environment, with initial design plans expected to be revealed in spring 2026.

Read more at BBC News (3 mins)

Oxford United sign Brian De Keersmaecker from Heracles

Herald Series · July 1, 2025

Oxford United has secured the signing of 25-year-old midfielder Brian De Keersmaecker from Heracles Almelo, beating competition from Blackburn Rovers and Toulouse. Head coach Gary Rowett commended his aggressive playing style and work ethic, highlighting the club's ambition with this significant investment in the talented player.

Read more at Herald Series (3 mins)

Property news

_{What’s on in and around Oxford this weekend?}

Henley Royal Regatta 2025

BBC News · July 1, 2025

The Henley Royal Regatta kicked off on 1 July 2025, featuring over 400 races and a record 768 entries from 19 nations amidst the UK’s hottest day of the year, prompting relaxed dress codes for spectators. Running until 6 July, this iconic event promises to showcase top rowing talent in a stunning riverside setting.

Read more at BBC News (1 min)

Jane Austen exhibition highlights Vale of White Horse links

BBC News · July 1, 2025

Explore the intriguing connections between Jane Austen and the Vale of White Horse in Nicola Cornick's exhibition "Pride and Patronage" at Uffington Museum, which examines Austen's rejection of Harris Bigg-Wither's marriage proposal and her visits to the area that may have influenced her decision. Discover how this historical narrative intertwines with Austen's celebrated literary legacy.

Read more at BBC News (2 mins)

All photos are credited to Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.

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