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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 30
Oxford News By Hana Edition 30
A reservoir dog's dinner?
Mark Skipworth
October 30, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 30
Oxford Outlook: A reservoir dog’s dinner?
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One bright, blustery morning a month or two ago, I ventured out with an old friend along a well-kept path that bordered a vast expanse of open water. Spray from its modest waves sparkled in the sunlight as the odd windsurfer prepared to launch into the swell. Installed along its mossy banks, fly fishermen cast their lines in pursuit of trout while cormorants held their wings aloft ostentatiously drying them in the wind. At that moment, the warmth of late summer on our backs, there were few better places to be in England.
Yet this was no natural paradise, but a man-made creation – the wild and wonderful public supply reservoir at Farmoor near Oxford, which not only provides fresh, clean water for the city and surrounding area but the town of Swindon as well.
Not content with one major reservoir in our area, Thames Water – that paragon of quality and efficiency (apologies for the sarcasm) – has launched a public consultation to build another, grander reservoir that will “play a critical role in tackling expected water shortages”.
The South East Strategic Reservoir Option (SESRO) is going to be big, really big - in fact, big enough to secure supplies for 15 million people and provide the equivalent of three million baths every day during droughts. There are even plans to float solar panels on the surface of its waters.
The bigger question remains, however: is this reservoir really necessary?
Located just eight miles from Oxford and five miles from Abingdon, it’s been calculated that the new reservoir will cover an area roughly the size of Gatwick Airport. Countryside and wildlife campaigners say its gigantic presence will devastate local ecology and wildlife.
And, of course, there’s the overall cost. According to a BBC report in this week’s newsletter, customers of Thames Water, Affinity Water and Southern Water will pay for the new reservoir through their water bills, with an estimated £5 a month being added to bills by 2040. No surprises there, I hear you say.
Concerns are already being voiced about its escalating costs. Capital construction costs have increased from an estimated £2.2 billion to three times that amount. No doubt this is not the end of the story. We’ve all seen how costs have spiralled out of control with that transport ‘white elephant’ HS2.
I confess, right now, I’m agnostic on the new reservoir. Still, I can’t help thinking Thames Water and the other water providers should be doing an awful lot more to try and conserve what we already have before embarking on this colossal infrastructure project - like fixing leaks, educating us on how to reduce our water consumption and so forth.
Thames Water says the public’s input from the consultation will influence its application for planning consent from the government. Make sure you have your say. You have until mid-January to make your voices heard.
The congestion charge came to pass, and the elders of Oxfordshire County Council saw that it was good. A £5 charge has been launched for cars entering Oxford on six key roads “to tackle traffic issues”, but where is the local democracy in this? After all, an overwhelming majority who responded to the council’s public consultation said the charge would have a negative impact on local residents and businesses. Yet their views were loudly ignored. A question: how does this congestion charge help the poor, suffering businesses of Botley Road who must endure the ongoing shambles of the road’s closure? Beats me.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
Oxfordshire has several main rivers, including the Thames and Cherwell which flow through Oxford, and the Windrush which flows through Witney
A large amount of drinking water (over 70%) is abstracted from the rivers, especially the Thames
Wallingford Beach on the Thames was granted designated bathing water status in 2024
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Public asked for their views on updated plans for gigantic reservoir near Abingdon
BBC News · October 28, 2025
Thames Water is seeking public input on its plans to build a reservoir near Abingdon, aiming to secure water for 15 million people by 2040. The project, which will be funded through customer bills and is expected to increase costs by about £5 a month, is crucial for providing water during droughts, supplying the equivalent of three million baths daily.
Hosepipe bans across Oxfordshire and elsewhere in the south of England to continue despite rainfall
BBC News · October 27, 2025
Despite a wetter September, hosepipe bans in parts of southern England will persist due to low river levels and the need for recovery from last summer's heatwave, according to Thames Water and hydrologists. While Southern Water plans to lift its ban soon in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Thames Water's restrictions remain in place for specific postcode areas including Oxfordshire.
Oxford Canal in Banbury temporarily reopens after dry summer
BBC News · October 29, 2025
The Oxford Canal has temporarily reopened between Claydon and Aynho after months of closure due to dry weather, but the Canal and River Trust warns that critically low reservoir levels could lead to another shutdown. Local businesses, especially Tooley's Boatyard, have suffered significantly during the closure, with owner Matt Armitage expressing concerns about the dock's future viability without sustained rainfall.
Oxford's new congestion charge is a 'mere cash cow' and unjustified, say residents
BBC News · October 29, 2025
Oxford's new £5 congestion charge has sparked criticism from residents who see it as an unfair money-making scheme, with calls for improvements to park and ride services instead. Despite the backlash, council traffic chief Andrew Gant defends the initiative, claiming it will reduce congestion, improve public transport and enhance air quality.
Well-known Oxford hotelier and restaurateur charged with murder of 100-year-old mother
BBC · October 23, 2025
Jeremy Mogford, a 78-year-old hotelier, and 71-year-old Sarah Pickering have been charged with murder and attempted murder following the death of Mogford's 100-year-old mother in February 2022. Both have pleaded not guilty and are due back in court on March 13, with Mogford describing the allegations as "complete nonsense."
Police to patrol Oxfordshire during Halloween and Bonfire Night
This is Oxfordshire · October 28, 2025
Local police are ramping up high-visibility patrols and enforcing strict fireworks regulations to ensure a safe Halloween and Bonfire Night, aiming to prevent anti-social behaviour and protect community safety. Residents are encouraged to celebrate responsibly while local authorities work to address concerns about potential disruptions during the festivities.
Islip death: Police reveal age of girl in major update
Oxford Mail · October 24, 2025
Thames Valley Police are investigating the tragic death of a nine-year-old girl in Islip, where a 49-year-old woman is in critical condition, following an assault on three children. The community is in shock as authorities urge respect for the ongoing investigation and extend condolences to the affected families.
Oxfordshire firefighters 'blindsided' by proposed station closures
BBC News · October 28, 2025
Firefighters in Oxfordshire are rallying against proposed fire station closures and relocations, feeling "blindsided" by plans that could compromise public safety and firefighter welfare. The Fire Brigades Union warns that prioritizing peak demand over actual risk may lead to staffing challenges and negatively impact community safety.
Oxford Mail · October 27, 2025
Sir Philip Pullman has released 'The Rose Field,' the third instalment in his 'The Book of Dust' series, showcasing his resilience as he navigates health challenges. In a recent interview, he humorously shared his experience of cataract surgery and reflected on how writing continues to be his "prophylactic against death."
Seven suspected puppy farm dogs found dumped near Wantage
BBC News · October 27, 2025
Seven abandoned dogs, suspected to have been used for puppy farming, were rescued by compassionate residents in Oxfordshire after they were found dumped in a rural area. The local police are now working to ensure the dogs receive health checks and find them new homes.
Row rocking Oxford Union 'is over a woman': Ousted president-elect says rival 'invited abuse' against him after beating his 'romantic partner' in election
Mail Online · October 25, 2025
George Abaraonye, the ousted President-elect of the Oxford Union, claims current President Moosa Harraj is inciting abuse against him after losing a no-confidence vote influenced by alleged irregularities. The controversy escalated following Abaraonye's inflammatory comments regarding the death of political activist Charlie Kirk, leading to a significant backlash and withdrawal of prominent speakers from the debating society’s events.
Botley solar farm community cash offer 'beggars belief'
BBC News · October 28, 2025
Local groups are criticising Photovolt Development Partners' offer of £441,000 per year for community benefits from the proposed 1,000-hectare solar farm, arguing it should be closer to £4.2 million, as former Town Mayor Colin Carritt warns this could lead to a loss of £150 million in benefits over the project's 40-year lifespan. MP Calum Miller also expressed disappointment with the company's engagement, while the project is set to generate an estimated total investment of at least £49 million in the local area.
Oxford trial tests AI to find cancers in dense breast tissue
Medscape ·
UK researchers are developing an AI-enhanced breast imaging tool aimed at improving cancer detection, particularly for women with dense breast tissue. Early studies show that this technology could lead to more accurate readings and earlier diagnoses, transforming breast cancer screening practices.
Dad 'eternally grateful' for daughter's life-saving action
BBC News · October 30, 2025
In a remarkable act of bravery, 10-year-old Ava from Sonning Common saved her father's life by performing CPR after he suffered a heart attack at home. Now both father and daughter are champions for CPR training in schools, inspired by the extraordinary impact of Ava's quick thinking during a critical moment.
Villagers wage planning battle against quarry expansion within Great Tew Estate
An Old Etonian property tycoon is facing strong opposition from local residents over plans to develop farmland, with community members concerned about the loss of valuable agricultural land and its impact on the environment and rural character. Protests have emerged as residents advocate for sustainable development and the preservation of green spaces.
Alarming security flaws over illicit drugs at Oxfordshire prison
BBC News · October 28, 2025
An inspection report has revealed alarming security flaws at HMP Bullingdon, with a 43% rise in drug use and a 27% increase in violence attributed to drone deliveries of drugs. The Ministry of Justice is taking immediate steps to address these issues, alongside criticisms of inadequate education schemes leaving many inmates homeless upon release.
Cotswolds pop star to bring Britpop music 'back to life'
Oxford Mail · October 28, 2025
Alex James, 56-year-old former Blur bassist turned cheesemaker, is set to tour with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra for the Britpop Classical show, kicking off at London's Royal Albert Hall on March 11. The orchestral reimagining of beloved Britpop hits promises to resonate with audiences of all ages, following a successful debut at his Big Feastival event.
Sport
Oxford Outlook: the U’s
Oxford United beat beleaguered Sheffield Wednesday 2-1 away last Saturday, steadying the ship a little after the previous 1-0 midweek defeat at Wrexham. Goals from Will Lankshear and Cameron Brannagan secured three Championship points for the U’s.
The men in yellow lie in 19th place on 12 points, although a goal difference of just -2 is a crumb of comfort. Much more significant is that Sheffield Wednesday have been deducted 12 points for entering administration. More deductions could follow, and the Owls are all but certainly doomed for the drop. With Norwich City in freefall and Sheffield United not faring much better in the bottom three, 19th now looks relatively rosy for United.
Next up for the U’s are Millwall at home on Saturday (3pm), followed by another home fixture against Stoke City on Tuesday. Both opponents are in the top six, so United will have their work cut out.
Gary Rowett praises Oxford United's 'tough edge' at Sheffield Wednesday
BBC Sport · October 27, 2025
Oxford United manager Gary Rowett praised his team's improved performance after their 2-1 victory against Sheffield Wednesday, which marked their second away win of the season and lifted them to 19th in the Championship. Despite a challenging second half, Rowett highlighted the importance of defensive resilience and a strong mindset in securing the win amid significant changes at Sheffield Wednesday.
Property news
Oxbridge 'Silicon Valley' given £500m government boost
BBC · October 23, 2025
The UK government has announced a £500 million investment in the Oxford-Cambridge Corridor, focusing on growth through affordable housing, infrastructure, and innovation, with Cambridge receiving £400 million. This initiative aims to create up to 10,000 new jobs and homes while addressing critical issues like water scarcity, although some MPs are concerned about prioritising wealthier regions.
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Firework displays in Oxford and Oxfordshire
Oxford City · October 20, 2025
Get ready for an exciting Bonfire Night in Oxfordshire with a variety of events in 2025, including the spectacular Abingdon Airfield fireworks display on November 15, and the family-friendly Thame Fireworks supporting local schools on November 8. Don't miss the Oxford Round Table's charity event at South Park and the milestone 50th Bicester Fireworks Display on November 1.
Cotswolds Decorative, Antiques & Art Fair to return
Cotswold Journal · October 29, 2025
Join us from October 31 to November 2 for an exciting exhibition featuring over 45 exhibitors showcasing unique items ranging from Victorian lighting to contemporary sculpture. With prices starting at just £20 and entry at £7.50 (or £5 for pre-purchased tickets), it's a must-visit event for collectors and enthusiasts alike!
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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