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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 32
Oxford News By Hana Edition 32
Tracks of our tears
Mark Skipworth
November 13, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 32
Oxford Outlook: Tracks of our tears
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And we thought 2026 would be the end of it! When Network Rail announced last January that Botley Road, a vital route in and out of Oxford, would reopen next August after being closed for more than three years, there were muted cheers all round.
Now it transpires that the Botley Road Shambles may be just the start of more years of disruption in that unfortunate part of Oxford.
Network Rail is said to be looking at wider plans to redevelop Oxford railway station to make it a “first class entry to the city”.
Forgive me, I thought that was what the Botley Road closure, and its commercial collateral damage, was all about. It turns out, after three years of grief and inconvenience, only the first part of the redevelopment programme is due to be completed by next summer, including – mercifully – the reopening of Botley Road as well as upgrades for trains to run on the East-West Rail service.
According to a BBC report in this week’s newsletter, plans to transform the site into a "landmark station and gateway" are not due to start until 2031. And if the timetable holds, the fully redeveloped station and surrounding area should be ready by 2037. Yes, you read it correctly – 2037.
Meanwhile, Neale Coleman, chair of the Oxford Growth Commission, is critical of the existing railway station which he describes as “pretty lousy”, “not good enough for Oxford” and “not good enough for any city, frankly”.
Among the suggested improvements are a new underpass between platforms, the extension of the Marylebone platform and new buildings on either side of the station to greet passengers. There are also demands for a new bus hub.
Network Rail says, coyly, it is "at the very start of the process for the station masterplan with the appointment of an architect being part of the first stage”.
Is this some sort of perverse joke? A “landmark” railway station should surely be a top priority if the Oxford-Cambridge Knowledge Corridor is to succeed in delivering its economic potential. Network Rail needs to get a move on – has it ever heard of the fast track?
* Campaigners are seeking to raise £100,000 in order to preserve the Corpus Christi Barge, an ageing jewel of the Thames. Originally built for college rowers to use as changing rooms and launching stations, there were as many as 26 such barges in the 1940s; today, only six remain afloat, most of them in private ownership. The Corpus Christi Barge has an intriguing link with J.R.R. Tolkien who is thought to have watched it floating down the river about the same time as he was writing The Hobbit. His early sketches of Bag End turn out to be strikingly similar to the barge, especially its distinctive oval windows. Who knew?
Smart Works, the charity that helps unemployed women into work through an innovative combination of fashionable workwear and expert coaching, is rocking in Bicester Village. But their boutique pop-up shop is open only until 20 November. 70-80% off retail prices for top brands. So get in quick. Location: Bicester Village, Oxfordshire OX26 6WD
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
In 2023-24, Oxford was by far the busiest railway station in Oxfordshire with 6.58 million entries and exits, followed by Didcot Parkway (2.33 million)
Journeys to London Paddington accounted for 35% of all travel from Oxford station, while 12% of visitors to Bicester Village went by rail
The least-used railway station was Finstock with just 706 entries and exits
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Call for more investment into ‘pretty lousy’ Oxford railway station
BBC News · November 12, 2025
Neale Coleman, chair of the Oxford Growth Commission, has called for significant investment to transform Oxford Railway Station into a first-class entry to the city, highlighting its current inadequacies. While initial upgrades are set to begin next summer, a comprehensive redevelopment isn't expected to start until 2031, with full completion projected by 2037, emphasizing the need for community input throughout the process.
Oxfordshire residents divided over new reservoir as Thames Water plans go on show
BBC News · November 11, 2025
Thames Water's proposed South East Strategic Reservoir Option (SESRO) near Abingdon aims to supply water to 15 million people, sparking a public consultation amid mixed community reactions regarding its significant scale and potential impact. While some residents express concerns about disruption and location, others highlight the necessity for water due to increasing housing developments, reflecting broader anxieties parents have about their children's future in a rapidly changing world.
Environment Agency investigates major pollution incident after 1,000 fish found dead in lake
BBC News · November 13, 2025
The Environment Agency is investigating a major pollution incident at a fishing lake in Rokemarsh, Oxfordshire, where around 1,000 fish, including valuable carp, have died since late October. Local fishing club members report discovering up to 200 dead fish daily, and Thames Water is also conducting an investigation amidst ongoing sewer issues in the area.
Oxford scientists find Saturn moon could support life
Yahoo News · November 10, 2025
New research from Oxford University reveals that Saturn's moon Enceladus, previously thought to have heat only at its south pole, shows significant warmth at the north pole as well, indicating long-term stability for potential life. With a global salty ocean and sustainable energy loss, Enceladus remains a prime candidate for extraterrestrial exploration, highlighting the importance of long-term missions to uncover its secrets.
Locals worried about Beyoncé and Jay-Z's move to the Cotswolds
Oxford Mail · November 10, 2025
Beyoncé and Jay-Z are reportedly eyeing a move to the Cotswolds after viewing a property in Oxfordshire, with plans for a "spectacular rural estate" already approved. While some local residents express excitement about their arrival, others worry about potential changes to the community's character and property values due to an influx of very wealthy buyers.
Oxfordshire hospitals face disruption due to industrial action by doctors
Oxford Mail · November 10, 2025
The public are being advised to use healthcare services wisely during the upcoming industrial action by resident doctors at Oxford University Hospitals from November 14 to 19, which may disrupt appointments and increase wait times, especially in Emergency Departments. Patients are urged to attend their scheduled appointments unless notified otherwise and to treat healthcare staff with respect during this challenging time.
Campaigners seek to preserve one of Oxford's last rowing barges
BBC News · November 12, 2025
The historic Corpus Christi barge in Oxford, a remnant of the city’s rowing legacy, is being revitalized by The Oxford College Barge Preservation Trust ahead of its 100th anniversary in 2030. With over £11,000 raised through crowdfunding for essential repairs, the community is invited to help preserve this iconic vessel, which holds a fascinating connection to J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit."
New partnership unveiled to expand business growth in Oxfordshire
BBC News · November 11, 2025
A major new partnership called Equinox, led by the University of Oxford and involving over 40 regional partners, aims to retain talent and attract investment in Oxfordshire, positioning it as a global innovation hub. With significant developments like the expansion of the Ellison Institute of Technology campus, the initiative seeks to create job opportunities and bolster the local economy, potentially adding £78 billion to the UK economy by 2035.
Oxfordshire TikTok creator 'so sorry' over cancer diagnosis lie
BBC News · November 11, 2025
TikTok influencer Brittany Miller has apologised for falsely claiming she had gastric cancer, which led to a viral fundraising page set up by a friend during a personal crisis in 2017. Despite facing a backlash, Miller clarified that she did not benefit financially and emphasised her actions were not malicious but born from desperation.
Museum charity buys Henley Iron Age hoard after crowdfunding success
BBC News · November 12, 2025
A museum in Oxfordshire has successfully acquired a remarkable Iron Age hoard, including a 2,000-year-old horse brooch and other artefacts, after raising thousands of pounds through crowdfunding. Councillor Neil Fawcett expressed enthusiasm for the hoard's future display, highlighting its significance as a treasure belonging to the people of the county.
Oxfordshire County Council to charge firms for road closures
BBC News · November 10, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council has been approved to implement a lane rental scheme, charging utility firms for road closures during peak hours to reduce disruption and expedite roadwork completion. The initiative, supported by MP Anneliese Dodds, aims to reinvest the revenue into local highways, ultimately benefiting the community by minimising traffic impacts.
Florence Pugh reveals horror movie left a lasting impact on the Oxford star
Oxford Mail · November 12, 2025
Florence Pugh opened up on The Louis Theroux Podcast about the emotional challenges she faced while filming Midsommar, revealing how she tapped into personal grief to portray her character Dani, which left her feeling manipulated and broken. The intense experience impacted her transition to her next role in Little Women, highlighting the delicate balance between method acting and mental health.
University scientists discover new way to observe DNA in living cells
Oxford Mail · November 10, 2025
Researchers have unveiled MCC Ultra, a revolutionary technique that enables precise observation of gene regulation in the human genome, potentially transforming our understanding of diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Led by Professor James Davies from the University of Oxford, this innovative method uncovers the physical arrangement of genetic control switches. It proposes a new model of gene regulation based on electromagnetic forces.
Jeremy Clarkson admits 'I'm broken’ after swapping his beloved six-wheeler for new farm vehicle
Cotswold Journal · November 12, 2025
Jeremy Clarkson, facing difficulties with his six-wheel drive Supacat, has decided to swap it for a more comfortable and practical CFMoto UForce U10 Pro for timber collection at Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds. His dogs are also enjoying the new vehicle, highlighting its robust appeal.
M40 dangerous driver banned after car forced to crash
Oxford Mail · November 12, 2025
Volodymyr Prokopiuk, a 46-year-old from Wembley, received a suspended prison sentence and a one-year driving ban for dangerously forcing another car off the M40 motorway while tailgating and cutting in front of the victim. Captured on dashcam, his reckless behavior included lewd gestures, and he must also complete 150 hours of unpaid work following his conviction for dangerous driving.
Oxford joins £15.9m national initiative to transform cancer research using live human tissue models
Ox · November 11, 2025
A new £15.9 million initiative, involving Oxford experts and funded by the Medical Research Council, Wellcome Trust, and Innovate UK, aims to enhance human-based research models for disease understanding and drug development, particularly in cancer. The project will develop advanced in vitro models to reduce reliance on animal testing and improve the accuracy of preclinical cancer therapies using patients' own tumor tissues.
Sport
Oxford United
The U’s find themselves in a perilous position. The men in yellow lie 21st in the Championship, just three points off the drop zone following a 2-1 away defeat to West Brom last Saturday.
They face a tough fixture at home against a strong Middlesbrough side after the international break (Saturday, 22 November, 3pm). Much more important, though, is a trip to Carrow Road to face fellow strugglers Norwich City the following Tuesday.
The Norwich match is a real “six-pointer”. Get beaten and United are in proper trouble. Win and they can ease their heads away from the chopping block for now. A draw would bring a temporary degree of relief. Here’s hoping.
The Sports Desk
Property news
Henley's River and Rowing Museum building up for sale for £3m
BBC News · November 11, 2025
The River and Rowing Museum in Henley, Oxfordshire, is on the market for £3 million after closing due to financial issues, with hopes for a buyer who will continue its community service. Designed by David Chipperfield Architects and opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1998, the museum recently underwent a £1.1 million refurbishment but is now seeking new ownership through CBRE.
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Jerry Hall to turn on Henley-on-Thames's Christmas lights
BBC News · November 13, 2025
Actress and model Jerry Hall will officially turn on the Christmas lights in Henley-on-Thames on November 28, joined by the town's mayor and a competition winner, as part of the Henley Christmas Festival. Expressing her excitement, Hall looks forward to celebrating the festive season with the community.
Countdown to Christmas lights shows across Oxfordshire
Witney Gazette · November 12, 2025
Experience the magic of Oxford's Christmas festivities with a weekend of community light trails, handmade lanterns, and a Diwali procession, alongside the Victorian Christmas market offering artisan delights. Don't miss Blenheim Palace's stunning illuminated trail running until January 3, and mark your calendars for the Kidlington Christmas Lights switch-on on November 27!
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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