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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 23
Oxford News By Hana Edition 23
Bridges over troubled waters
Mark Skipworth
September 11, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 23
Oxford Outlook: Bridges over troubled waters
Not a great week for Oxfordshire’s waterways. First we hear of the threat of closure of Tooley’s famous Banbury boatyard, then the bad news that the Oxford Canal is to stay shut throughout September across a 16-lock stretch. Blame climate change and the recent dry weather.
Now, in a BBC report in this week’s newsletter, we’re told of the funding crisis that afflicts the “valuable” and “special” Thames Path along with our other National Trails.
Freddie Van Mierlo, MP for Henley and Thame, has hosted a debate in Parliament on the condition of these trails, which he says have been an easy target for cuts.
The MP has been campaigning for the reopening of Marsh Lock footbridge, which is part of the Thames Path, after it was closed in 2022 over safety fears.
The closure has resulted in “an enormous diversion that crosses a busy A road twice, and that's just totally unsuitable," he says, adding he will “continue to fight for the funding and care” that our National Trails deserve. Good on him!
Closer to home, my own local community in Oxfordshire is pressing to have another historic bridge reopened. The wooden Ten Foot Footbridge spanning the Upper Thames was closed 18 months ago “in the interest of public safety.” Despite providing walkers with car-free access to the Thames Path, there is no indication from the Environment Agency when it will reopen.
The deafening silence from this public body to lay out timetables for repairs to the footbridges for which it is responsible is wholly unacceptable. As sad symbols of Broken Britain, these neglected structures are hard to beat.
* To nobody’s surprise, plans to introduce a £5 daily congestion charge for Oxford have been approved. The elders of Oxfordshire County Council have decided to impose a charge on motorists entering Oxford via six roads around the city. Charging cameras will be installed in time for the scheme’s launch on Monday, 10 November.
In recommending the plans, which will include permits for carers, traders and other special categories, Andrew Gant, cabinet member for transport, said the policy “doesn't cure everything but it does deliver very significant benefits.”
For whom, exactly? Of 7,000 respondents to a public consultation, 75% said the congestion charge would have a negative impact on their lives. And there are already vocal concerns about the impact on businesses in the run-up to Christmas. So much for local democracy.
Open Roads for Oxford says it will start a legal challenge against the elders’ decision. The pressure group may well take heart from what happened in France a few years ago. In the land of liberty, equality and fraternity – albeit in a bit of a mess at the moment – congestion charges were planned for French cities but wisely, were later abandoned amid fears of a backlash. En avant!
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
According to the latest census in 2021, about 101,000 Oxford residents said they were born in England – 62.3% of the local population. The figure has decreased from 103,400 in 2011, or 68.1% of Oxford's population at that time.
India was the next most represented, with just over 3,600 Oxford residents reporting this country of birth (2.2%) – up from about 2,500 in 2011.
The number of Oxford residents born in non-EU European countries (other than the UK and Turkey) rose from around 2,100 in 2011 (1.4% of the local population) to just over 3,100 in 2021 (1.9%).
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories from Oxford This Week
as chosen by our editors
Oxford £5 congestion charge approved by Oxfordshire County Council
BBC News · September 10, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council has approved a £5 daily congestion charge for car drivers in six high-traffic areas of Oxford, aiming to reduce congestion and raise funds for local transport improvements. Set to be implemented by November 10, the scheme will also enhance bus services with additional journeys and extended operational hours, although concerns about its impact on local businesses persist.
Oxford hospitals fail to make top 50 in UK rankings
Oxford Mail · September 9, 2025
The latest rankings from the Department of Health and Social Care place Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust at 54th among acute trusts, while Oxford Health achieved a commendable 13th in the non-acute category. Health Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted these rankings as a tool for identifying areas needing urgent support, although experts warn that they may oversimplify complex health care challenges.
Henley MP hosts debate in Parliament on the Thames Path and other 'valuable' National Trails
BBC News · September 9, 2025
Henley and Thame MP Freddie Van Mierlo is advocating increased funding and care for National Trails, stressing their economic value and the need to reopen the Marsh Lock footbridge on the Thames Path, which was closed in 2022 due to safety concerns. He emphasised that these trials not only contribute £1.8 billion to the economy but also save the NHS £300 million annually, despite facing a significant funding cut.
Solar farm plan in Brize Norton that 'could power a town' refused
BBC · September 8, 2025
West Oxfordshire District Council has rejected a proposed 30MW solar farm and battery energy storage system in Brize Norton, which aimed to power 12,000 homes and meet much of Witney's energy needs. Concerns over potential contamination of a nearby private water supply at the historic Caswell House venue influenced the decision, with a majority of councillors voting against the project.
Raymond Blanc breaks silence as Le Manoir closure sparks mass job cuts
Oxford Mail · September 10, 2025
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, the renowned restaurant and hotel founded by chef Raymond Blanc, will temporarily close for 18 months starting January 2026 for extensive renovations, leading to around 150 job losses. Blanc, who will transition to a lifetime ambassador role, described the redevelopment as an emotional but necessary step to enhance the establishment's legacy of luxury and fine dining before reopening in summer 2027.
‘Lord of the Rings’ landmark repair fund reaches £350,000
BBC · September 9, 2025
Faringdon Folly in Oxfordshire, linked to Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," is set for essential repairs with £350,000 raised towards its £420,000 goal ahead of its 90th anniversary. Fundraisers are optimistic about reaching their target before scaffolding goes up in March 2026, as the folly's unique architecture continues to inspire and capture the imagination.
Beyoncé and Jay-Z spotted in Cotswolds garden centre
Oxford Mail · September 9, 2025
Beyoncé and Jay-Z are reportedly eyeing a move to the Cotswolds after securing planning permission for a "spectacular rural estate" in Oxfordshire. Following her recent performances in London, the couple were spotted near Wigginton, but local resident Gerry Barrago expressed indifference towards their celebrity status.
Oxford University to lead major study on treatments for acid reflux
Yahoo News · September 8, 2025
A groundbreaking international study led by the University of Oxford is set to compare two surgical treatments for acid reflux—standard fundoplication and the innovative LINX procedure—aiming to enhance patient outcomes for the one in five adults affected. With 460 participants across the UK and Europe, this research promises to deliver unbiased insights over two years, potentially revolutionizing care for those with medication-resistant acid reflux.
Spider alert! Invasion of the giant pursewebs!
Oxford Mail · September 8, 2025
Homeowners in the UK are noticing an uptick in spider activity, including the recently confirmed purseweb spider, which poses minimal risk to humans. The Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust highlights the importance of spiders in controlling insect populations and reassures that bites from most species, including the often-misunderstood noble false widow, are rarely dangerous.
McDonald's wins appeal over 3am closing time at Oxford branch
BBC · September 11, 2025
McDonald's has won approval to extend its operating hours at its Cornmarket Street location to 3am daily, after demonstrating a history of minimal complaints during similar hours at a former site. The Planning Inspectorate recognized the lively city center environment and determined that the extended hours would not negatively impact local residents.
Health system revamp agreed in Oxfordshire despite no new funds
BBC News · September 10, 2025
Oxfordshire's health and social care leaders are launching a new neighbourhood health system aimed at serving populations of 50,000 to 100,000, leveraging existing resources creatively amid funding constraints. Despite challenges from budget cuts and organisational restructuring, the initiative aligns with the NHS's 10 Year Plan to enhance community-based care.
Oxfordshire mum's campaign calls for more brain cancer research
BBC · September 10, 2025
Georgie Maynard, a mother of five from Oxfordshire battling glioblastoma, is leading a campaign for increased funding for brain cancer research, protesting at Westminster to demand the government fulfil its £40 million commitment. Despite brain tumours being the leading cause of cancer death in younger populations, only 1% of research funding is allocated to them, prompting frustration among advocates like Mrs. Maynard.
BBC · September 9, 2025
Abbey Meadow outdoor pool in Abingdon celebrated the end of its season with a successful "Swim for Dogs" event, expanding this year's programme to a full day of canine swimming fun. The event also took place at Riverside outdoor pool in Wallingford, offering dogs and their owners a unique opportunity to enjoy a splash together before the pools are drained and cleaned.
Four new stations proposed in Oxfordshire rail strategy
BBC · September 6, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council is inviting public feedback on its OxRail 2040 initiative, which plans to introduce four new railway stations and reopen the Cowley Branch Line for passenger services while focusing on decarbonization. Community members are encouraged to attend an upcoming meeting to discuss local issues and contribute their suggestions for enhancing public services.
Vice-chancellor named for Oxford Brookes
This Is Wiltshire · September 9, 2025
Professor Helen Laville has been inaugurated as vice-chancellor of Oxford Brookes University, taking over from Professor Alistair Fitt. With a strong background in enhancing research and student outcomes at Kingston University, she is committed to making a positive impact on students and communities.
Emma Watson wears Taylor Swift-style outfit in rare public appearance
Oxford Mail · September 8, 2025
Emma Watson, known for her iconic role as Hermione Granger, has taken a break from acting to study at Oxford University since 2023. Recently, she made a rare appearance at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, turning heads in a tailored Gucci minidress reminiscent of one worn by Taylor Swift.
Oxford chippy named one of best in UK for third year in a row
Yahoo News · September 5, 2025
Harrison’s Fish & Chips in Botley has proudly been shortlisted for the National Fish & Chip Awards for the third year in a row, making it one of the UK’s top 40 takeaways. Owner Ryan Harrison credits their success to high-quality products and community support, as they adapt to industry challenges by diversifying their menu with alternative fish species.
Sport
MP urges speedy government decision on new Oxford United stadium
BBC · September 9, 2025
Oxford East MP Anneliese Dodds is calling on new Housing Secretary Steve Reed to back Oxford United's planning application for a new 16,000-capacity stadium near Kidlington, as the club faces uncertainty with its current lease expiring next year. The proposal, which includes a hotel and has already received support from Cherwell District Council, now awaits a decision amid concerns over green belt land use.
Property news
First look inside stunning hotel planned for Oxford in Old County Hall
Oxford Mail · September 9, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council has sold its historic County Hall to global investor L&G, which plans to convert the Grade II*-listed building into a high-quality hotel as part of the West End regeneration. The sale will fund the refurbishment of Speedwell House, although archaeological findings may cause delays, while other local developments like the transformation of the Boswells Department Store into the Store Hotel are also underway.
Former Oxford convent put up for sale after 145 years
BBC News · September 5, 2025
The All Saints Sisters of the Poor are selling their historic Mother House at 15A Magdalen Road in Oxford for £12 million, marking the first sale in 145 years as they plan to relocate. The 3.1-acre property, featuring multiple Grade II listed buildings, is now on the market through Knight Frank, generating anticipated high interest.
Beyoncé buying 'derelict shack and algae-filled lake' in Cotswolds
Oxford Mail · September 9, 2025
Beyoncé and Jay-Z are reportedly finalizing the purchase of 58 acres near Wigginton for a luxurious estate, sparking mixed reactions among locals who are excited yet concerned about potential disruptions to their quiet village life. While some residents welcome the celebrity couple's arrival, others fear it will attract paparazzi and elevate property prices, transforming their tranquil community into a high-profile hotspot.
Heyford Park: 9,000 homes planned at former RAF base
BBC · September 5, 2025
Developer Dorchester Living has submitted plans for up to 9,000 homes at the former RAF Upper Heyford air base, potentially creating one of Oxfordshire's largest new towns with 30% affordable housing and essential community facilities. However, local campaigners and MP Calum Miller have raised concerns about the project's scale and its impact on the countryside, emphasising the need for adequate infrastructure before any construction begins.
What’s on in and around Oxford?
The Double Red Duke among UK's best hotel restaurants
Oxford Mail · September 7, 2025
The Times has spotlighted the UK's top hotel restaurants, with The Ritz restaurant leading the pack and The Double Red Duke in Oxfordshire ranked 4th for its exceptional meat offerings and vibrant atmosphere. Anticipation is building for a new local pub opening next Spring, as residents express excitement over its promising food and atmosphere, marking a positive transformation from previous reviews.
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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