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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 26
Oxford News By Hana Edition 26
Simplistically red
Mark Skipworth
October 02, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 26
Oxford Outlook: Simplistically red
Welcome to Legoland! Er, not quite. The Red Hall (see below) is the latest addition to Oxford’s skyline, centrepiece of the £1.2 billion Oxford North development, the new science, technology and innovation district.
In his guise as Chancellor of Oxford University, Baron Hague of Richmond – William Hague to you and me – cut the ribbon at the official opening on Tuesday.
With its cafe and community meeting spaces, the Red Hall is at the heart of one million sq ft of new laboratories, offices and homes, which, it is hoped, will generate more than 4,500 jobs. Good news, of course.
But it’s the look of the building which has drawn widespread criticism. Many people believed its bright red roofs, visible from afar, were temporary and would be removed to reveal permanent coverings more in keeping with its semi-rural environment.
But no! The red roofs have stayed – hence the choice of name – leading many to brand the building “childish” and a “blot on the landscape”.
In a BBC report in this week’s newsletter, Prof Sue Black, president of St John's, the Oxford college which owns the land, defends the red roofs, saying the building is “eye catching” and references the red of the college badge. Hmm.
No doubt there will be some who find the building’s appearance to be aesthetically pleasing, but there can’t be many. It has something of the in-vogue Scandi about it, to be sure – like a Munch painting of a Nordic house perhaps, whose red exterior often expressed the torment and despondency of the picture’s creator? Not quite the message this beautiful city of ours might wish to convey!
Along with the hugely unpopular £5 daily congestion charge, the unused park-and-ride and the shambles of the Botley Road closure, the Red Hall is another own-goal for Oxford (apologies to any U’s supporters).
Coinciding with the Banbury Canal Festival, Tooley’s is hosting two nights of free music in its 250 year-old dry dock tomorrow and Saturday. The boatyard is hoping to raise awareness and support for the historic dock which is under threat of closure after the summer drought shut a stretch of the Oxford Canal. Keep Tooley’s afloat - get there if you can.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
Best-selling spy novelists – as well as spies, some of them notorious – have had strong links with Oxford University.
A special exhibition at Bodleian Libraries is drawing on the vast archive of John le Carré who, as David Cornwell, was a student at Lincoln College.
Mick Herron, of Slow Horses fame, studied English at Balliol College and still lives in the city.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
as chosen by our editors
Oxford North’s big red ‘blot on the landscape’ opens
BBC News · October 1, 2025
The Red Hall building, a striking new addition to Oxford’s skyline, serves as the focal point of the £1.2bn Oxford North development, which will span 64 acres and includes laboratories, offices, homes, and public spaces designed to foster innovation in sectors like AI and biotechnology. Officially opened by William Hague on Tuesday, this ambitious project aims to create over 4,500 jobs and features unique art installations representing the Solar System, enhancing connectivity to the city centre.
Oxfordshire County Council to wait and see how congestion charge pans out
BBC News · September 25, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council is set to introduce a £5 daily congestion charge for car drivers on six roads starting October 29, ahead of the original date. This "soft launch" coincides with the school half-term and offers permits for residents and specific groups, while fines will be enforced for non-compliance.
Oxford's Botley Road now 'intolerable' due to noise from construction work
BBC News · September 26, 2025
Residents near Oxford's Botley Road railway station are facing ongoing noise issues from overnight construction work related to a £161m upgrade project, which is set to continue until August 2026. Despite numerous complaints, local people express frustration over the disruption caused by unexpected delays and construction challenges.
Emma Watson writes play about herself at Oxford University
Oxford Mail · October 1, 2025
Emma Watson has taken an indefinite break from acting to pursue a DPhil in creative writing, during which she has written a one-woman play reflecting on her transition from a famous actress to a university student. Sharing her journey on Jay Shetty's podcast, she expressed gratitude for how writing has helped her articulate her unique experiences and process her feelings.
JK Rowling, meanwhile, dismisses Watson as 'ignorant' over trans rights row
BBC News · September 29, 2025
J.K. Rowling sharply criticized Emma Watson for her supportive comments towards the trans community, arguing that Watson's privileged background has left her unaware of the complexities surrounding gender identity debates. Despite their disagreements, Watson expressed her love for Rowling and her appreciation for their past relationship, while acknowledging the tension between their differing views.
36 England flags removed in one hour by Oxford’s Stand Up To Racism group
Oxford Mail · September 29, 2025
A new movement called Operation Raise the Colours is promoting the display of St George's Crosses around Oxford, but it has drawn criticism from Stand Up To Racism, which argues that the flags incite racism. The group's local branch actively removed several flags and called for community support to counteract what they view as far-right sentiments.
Local plan to be withdrawn by Oxfordshire councils
BBC News · October 2, 2025
South Oxfordshire District Council and Vale of White Horse have been ordered to withdraw their joint local plan for 2041 due to concerns from the Planning Inspectorate about inadequate collaboration with Oxford City Council on housing needs, highlighting a significant disagreement over required new homes. The councils are now assessing their next steps following this disappointing decision.
Oxfordshire school named among England's safest
Oxford Mail · September 30, 2025
Icknield Community College in Watlington has been ranked joint-sixth in the Great British Schools Guide for 2024-2025, with an impressive 98% of parents rating student safety highly. Notably recognised as the only Oxfordshire school in the top 10 safest schools in the south east, Icknield emphasises high academic expectations while fostering a culture that broadens students' perspectives and aspirations.
New Oxford University centre for the humanities will open in under two weeks
Oxford Mail · September 30, 2025
The Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre at the University will open on October 13, featuring the Institute for Ethics in AI and housing nine humanities faculties, along with a range of performance venues, including a concert hall and flexible theatre. The centre's programme of events is set to commence in April 2026.
Banbury churchyard rape 'not linked to migrant accommodation'
BBC · September 29, 2025
Thames Valley Police are investigating a recent rape incident at St Mary's Church in Banbury, Oxfordshire, emphasising there is currently no evidence linking the attack to migrant accommodation. Local officials have expressed their shock, and the police are appealing for witnesses as they work to identify the offenders while providing support to the victim.
Treasure found in Wallingford and Witney, court confirms
Oxford Mail · October 1, 2025
Two remarkable archaeological treasures were confirmed by the Oxfordshire Coroner's Court on September 22: a silver seal matrix unearthed in Ewelme and a gold bracelet fragment found in Standlake. These finds highlight the rich historical legacy of the region, with both items qualifying as treasure under updated legal definitions.
Baby death in Oxford sparks police Investigation
Uknip ·
A tragic incident in Rose Hill, Oxford, has resulted in the unexplained death of a baby, prompting a police investigation and raising concerns within the community. Authorities are appealing for witnesses to help shed light on this heartbreaking event that has deeply affected local families.
Posthumous Oxford degree awarded to Māori woman
BBC · September 29, 2025
Mākereti Papakura, the first indigenous woman to study at Oxford, was posthumously awarded an MPhil in Anthropology nearly 100 years after her studies began, with her relative accepting the degree at a ceremony attended by over 100 supporters, including former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Her groundbreaking contributions to academia continue to inspire future generations and the global Māori community.
City council gives green light to new Oxford University ‘India Centre’ facility
Oxford Mail via Yahoo News · September 26, 2025
Oxford City Council has green-lit The Ratan Tata Building, a new four-storey facility at Somerville College that will house the Oxford India Centre for Sustainable Development, funded by a generous donation from the Tata Group in honour of the late Ratan Tata. Described as a "landmark moment," the building embodies the values of Resilience, Inclusion, Sustainability and Excellence, leaving a lasting legacy for Mr Tata.
Funding shortage forces Didcot food bank to make changes
BBC News · October 2, 2025
Didcot Emergency Foodbank, facing funding shortages, is reducing its service from twice a week to once a week for six weeks, shifting back to its original emergency support role. Despite expecting to assist around 6,000 clients this year, it regrets being unable to help families who are struggling but managing.
Fire cadets honour Bicester Motion blaze victims
BBC · September 29, 2025
Fire cadets from Bicester Fire Station raised over £3,000 in a tribute to fallen firefighters Jen Logan and Martyn Sadler, as well as community member Dave Chester, through a charity bike ride across Oxfordshire. Surpassing their £2,000 target for the Firefighters Charity, the "Pedal for Purpose" challenge showcased the cadets' dedication and teamwork while honouring their colleagues' memory.
Sport
Queens Park Rangers 0-0 Oxford United: Stalemate at Loftus Road
Queens Park Rangers endured a frustrating goalless draw against Oxford United, managing just one shot on target despite dominating possession. While QPR dropped to 10th in the Championship, Oxford's strong defensive performance lifted them out of the relegation zone.
BBC gives up TV rights for iconic Boat Race - but denies it was because boss 'deemed it elitist'
Mail Online · October 1, 2025
Channel 4 has secured a five-year deal to broadcast the historic Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge, ending the BBC's long-standing coverage since 1938. As the race prepares for its bicentenary in 2029, Channel 4 aims to celebrate this iconic event in British sports culture, with Cambridge currently leading in both men's and women's competitions.
70s footballer ready for the veterans World Cup
BBC · October 1, 2025
Drew Warre, a 75-year-old footballer from Yelford, Oxfordshire, is set to represent England in the Over-75s Veterans Football World Cup in Tokyo from October 1 to 3, aiming to defend their title after a thrilling win against Wales in 2024. Having embraced Japanese culture during his stay, Warre's journey highlights his lifelong passion for football, which he revived at 50 with the Witney Royals.
Oxford basketball club says future in doubt over league placement
BBC News · September 28, 2025
Oxford Hoops, newly promoted to England's top basketball league, faces significant challenges due to being placed in a northern pool, prompting head coach Franky Marulanda to voice concerns over player departures and the financial strain of long-distance travel. With many players balancing full-time jobs and family commitments, Marulanda fears for the club's viability and potential sponsor losses after expecting a placement in the southern conference.
Property news
Oxford house prices increase by 3%
Oxford Mail · September 30, 2025
UK house prices increased by 2.8% year-on-year to an average of £270,000, driven by lower mortgage rates, while Oxford saw notable growth with a 3% monthly rise despite a 7% annual decline in property values. Meanwhile, key areas like Kensington and Chelsea faced significant price drops, highlighting the mixed trends across the housing market.
Housing market activity likely to strengthen gradually, says Nationwide
Oxford Mail · October 1, 2025
UK property values saw a slight annual increase of 2.2% in September, with Northern Ireland experiencing the highest growth at 9.6%. Despite ongoing economic uncertainties and high inflation, the housing market remains supportive for potential buyers, though affordability issues and upcoming budget announcements could influence activity.
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Inside the meticulous, marvellous mind of John le Carré
The Independent · October 1, 2025
Explore the fascinating exhibition "John le Carré: Tradecraft" at the Bodleian Library, which delves into the meticulous research and writing process of the renowned author, revealing how his brief intelligence career influenced his iconic novels. With insights from co-curator Dr. Jessica Douthwaite and unique artifacts, the exhibition showcases le Carré's commitment to authenticity and the universal themes of trust, betrayal and love that permeate his works.
Keep Tooley's Afloat - two nights of free music
Join us for "Keep Tooley's Afloat," a free two-night music event at Tooley's Drydock on October 3rd and 4th, featuring local musicians, food stalls and a vibrant atmosphere as part of the Banbury Canal festivities. Celebrate community and culture along the waterways while enjoying live music in a unique setting! |
Former BBC news presenter to deliver public lecture at Oxford University
Oxford Mail via Yahoo News · September 27, 2025
Award-winning journalist Mishal Husain will deliver the 2025 Romanes Lecture at the University of Oxford on October 14, exploring themes of empire, identity, and reason through her extensive media experience. Recognized for her impactful contributions to public discourse and broadcasting, she follows in the footsteps of notable predecessors, with her talk reflecting on historical narratives and contemporary issues.
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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