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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 41
Oxford News By Hana Edition 41
Mind the (funding) gap
Mark Skipworth
January 29, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 41
Oxford Outlook: Mind the (funding) gap
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Infrastructure, Infrastructure, Infrastructure. Okay, I admit, the words don't have quite as much fizz and vim as Tony Blair’s election-winning mantra Education, Education, Education, but they are no less relevant, especially in this overheating corner of our septic – sorry, sceptred – isle.
A major project to replace an ageing rail bridge is being delayed due to a massive £71m funding shortfall, according to a report by Yahoo! News in this week’s newsletter.
Kennington Railway Bridge on the outskirts of Oxford crosses the River Thames and forms a key part of the A423 southern bypass. Built in 1965, it carries about 50,000 vehicles a day over the top of several railway lines, with about 360 trains passing underneath it daily, and connects essential science, technology and business locations across the city.
Despite its strategic importance, the bridge is in such a sorry state that temporary support structures are already in use, and the prospect of future lane closures or weight restrictions looms.
Apparently, the project was originally estimated to cost £53m when Oxfordshire county council first said the bridge needed to be replaced back in 2019. This then rose to £90m in 2022. Yet it was only in October 2024 that the council “received planning permission for the improvements”. From whom or what exactly? Itself?
The estimated full cost now stands at an eye-watering £180m, leaving a huge funding gap of tens of millions of pounds.
Council elders blame the escalating cost on the “engineering challenges” as well as inflation in the cost of construction materials. Sounds familiar?
How reassuring to learn that the council and the Environment Agency are now working with local MPs to press central government to secure funding for the bridge replacement. About time, too, you might think.
As one councillor opined: “Replacing Kennington rail bridge is essential for the future resilience of our local road network and the continued growth of science and technology opportunities.” Essential? Then why has the council taken so long to get its act together?
If and when funding is secured, the bridge will need to be replaced in a way that keeps the traffic moving throughout the construction period and thus protects the local economy. Please, please, not another Botley Road shambles.
* And very fine you look, Mr Herbert (see today’s story below). Decorative wigs have been spotted on statues around Oxford, including the bronze of William Herbert, 3rd Earl of Pembroke, at the Bodleian Library. The wigs, it seems, are a tribute to Sir John Vanbrugh (1664–1726) ahead of a major exhibition of the English architect’s life and times at his grandest creation – Blenheim Palace. A must-visit for all wig lovers.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
This week we highlight education and skills. And the data reveals a curate’s egg.
Further education and skills participation, per 100,000 of population: Oxford 3,730. Much lower than the national local authority average of 4,842 in 2025.
GCSEs in English and Maths: Oxford 70.8%. Significantly below the national local authority average of 76.5% in 2024.
Level 3 or above qualifications: Oxford 85.1%. Much higher than the national local authority average of 67.1% in 2023 (slightly crusty data, though).
Pupils meeting the expected standard in reading, writing and maths at the end of Key Stage 2: Oxford 63%. Narrowly above the national local authority average of 62% in 2025.
Ah, the City of Dreaming Spires and splendid sandstones. Matthew Arnold, the Victorian poet who coined the spires quote, might well be rumbling in his grave. Oxford has a global reputation for academic excellence. However, the data suggests that Oxford kids are being a little underserved.
Source: Office for National Statistics
Scroll down for sport, property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Oxford rail bridge project faces massive funding shortfall
Yahoo News · January 28, 2026
The replacement of the A423 Kennington rail bridge in Oxford is facing a £71 million funding shortfall, prompting urgent discussions among local council members and MPs about its critical role in supporting traffic flow and flood management. With the total project cost now estimated at £180 million due to rising construction expenses, efforts are underway to secure government funding to ensure timely completion and prevent further disruptions.
Oxford Low Traffic Neighbourhoods cut road casualties by half, claim campaigners
BBC · January 26, 2026
The installation of controversial Low Traffic Neighbourhoods in Cowley, Oxford, has halved traffic-related injuries and saved over £3 million, according to campaigners. However, critics argue that these measures have merely displaced congestion and pollution, worsening conditions for residents.
Coming soon: new rules to stop drivers entering some areas of Oxford
Daily Mirror · January 25, 2026
Starting in August, Oxford will implement a new permit system monitored by ANPR cameras, allowing drivers limited access to certain areas, sparking criticism over civil liberties and potential nationwide precedents. This initiative, part of the '15-minute city' concept, aims to reduce congestion and promote sustainable transport, while permitting exemptions for specific groups like emergency services and local residents.
Wes Streeting answers questions on healthcare challenges in Oxfordshire
BBC · January 22, 2026
Wes Streeting, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, addressed critical healthcare challenges in Oxfordshire, particularly the NHS's struggle to meet the growing demand for adult autism and ADHD diagnoses. His comments highlight the urgent need for policy reforms and enhanced mental health services to ensure timely care for patients.
Private ultrasound service in Didcot breached legal regulations
BBC News · January 28, 2026
The Care Quality Commission has flagged Baby Moments, a private ultrasound and fertility scan service in Didcot, Oxfordshire, for requiring improvement due to breaches in safeguarding, infection prevention, risk management, and governance. The service primarily caters for women from Oxfordshire and Berkshire, and the BBC is seeking their response to the report's findings.
Oxford University student accused of chanting 'put the Zios in the ground' at Pro-Palestine rally denies stirring up racial hatred
Mail Online · January 27, 2026
Samuel Williams, a 20-year-old Oxford University student, has denied charges of inciting racial hatred through anti-Semitic chants during a pro-Palestine demonstration in London. Suspended from the university, he faces legal proceedings while concerns about rising anti-Semitism on campuses prompt calls for enhanced protections for Jewish students.
Man arrested in Harwell murder investigation
Oxford Mail · January 28, 2026
A 41-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of a 64-year-old woman in Harwell, Oxfordshire, on January 27. Thames Valley Police's Major Crime Unit is investigating the incident, assuring the public that there is no wider threat while maintaining an increased police presence in the area.
Five Oxfordshire pubs saved in rescue deal by administrators
Oxford Mail · January 28, 2026
The Revel Collective, owner of Peach Pubs, has entered administration due to financial difficulties, resulting in the closure of 21 venues and 591 job losses, though five locations in Oxfordshire will remain open. Despite these challenges, FTI Consulting has secured deals for 41 sites and 1,582 jobs, with the remaining business acquired by Coral Pub Company, as the company navigates rising costs and declining sales.
Oxford tops league of world’s best in university rankings for computer science
The Times of India · January 21, 2026
The University of Oxford has been named the top institution for Computer Science in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, scoring 97.7, followed closely by the University of Cambridge and ETH Zurich. This highlights the UK's strong standing in computing education, with leading universities excelling in research quality, teaching and industry collaboration.
University of Oxford priest told to step down after grooming and misconduct allegations
Mail Online · January 23, 2026
Father Damian Howard, a Senior Chaplain at the Oxford University Catholic Chaplaincy, resigned amid allegations of professional misconduct involving a student, leading to an investigation by the Jesuits in Britain. While claims of grooming were not substantiated, Howard's actions reportedly exploited the student's emotional struggles, prompting an ongoing independent review by the Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency.
Revealed: The easiest university courses to get into prestigious Oxford and Cambridge – where up to 70 per cent of applicants are accepted
Mail Online · January 26, 2026
Recent admission figures from Oxford and Cambridge show a notable increase in acceptance rates for courses like modern languages and classics, with more than half of applicants receiving offers, while engineering remains highly competitive at just 13.9%. Experts warn that this trend reflects a growing tendency among students to prioritise acceptance odds over their specific academic interests.
Oxford museum fees begin despite fears over future
BBC News · January 26, 2026
From last Monday, the Museum of Oxford began charging new entrance fees of £4 for standard tickets and £2 for concessions, a move criticised by the Save Our Museum campaign due to concerns it may drastically reduce visitor numbers and fail to solve financial issues. Despite the anticipated revenue of £70,000, internal reports indicate that the fees could hinder fundraising efforts and threaten the museum's long-term viability.
Artisan South Oxfordshire bakery named among the best in Britain
Oxford Mail · January 28, 2026
Imma the Bakery in Stoke Row, Henley, has been recognised as one of the UK's top 13 artisan bakeries by The Artisan Collective, thanks to founder Tona Erreguin's commitment to traditional methods and local grains. Celebrated for her meticulous approach to fermentation, Tona aims to foster community ties while welcoming an anticipated influx of "bread tourists" without losing sight of local connections.
‘Modern-day fascism’ as Union Flags put up close to police station
Yahoo News - January 29, 2026
Residents in Oxford city centre are raising alarms over the display of Union Flags near a police station, with some likening it to "modern-day fascism." In response, local councils have reaffirmed their pride in the flags but highlighted safety concerns, advising residents to direct queries about unauthorised displays to the appropriate authorities.
Charity shop's rare copy of The Hobbit sells for £3,000
BBC Newsround · January 12, 2026
A charity shop in Stirling has made headlines after selling a rare Longmans edition of The Hobbit featuring a vibrant cover illustration of Smaug for £3,000, setting a record for the store. This special edition, part of a series aimed at primary school libraries, was donated to Oxfam as part of their second-hand Christmas shopping initiative.
Mystery as Baroque wigs appear on Oxford statues and landmarks
Yahoo News · January 24, 2026
Oxford is celebrating Sir John Vanbrugh, the renowned architect of the English Baroque, with quirky baroque wigs adorning landmarks like the Bodleian Library's William Herbert statue. The upcoming exhibition "Blueprints of Power" at Blenheim Palace, running from February 14 to April 10, will offer an immersive look into Vanbrugh's life and legacy through visual displays, costumes, and stories as part of the nationwide Vanbrugh 300 celebrations.
Oxford-based eco-friendly courier firm closes after 14 years
BBC · January 28, 2026
Pedal & Post, the eco-friendly courier service from Oxford known for its cargo bike deliveries, has announced its closure after 14 years due to the loss of a major client. The company expressed heartfelt gratitude to its community and supporters while highlighting its commitment to sustainable urban delivery methods.
Sport
Oxford Outlook: The U’s
Just when we thought Oxford United were doomed, they managed to pull off a 2-1 win away to Leicester City at the weekend. We don’t do gambling on this Sports Desk, but it’s safe to say that the victory falls into the “long shot” category when one considers the pre-match odds.
Funnily enough, it was a Sam Long shot that fired The U’s into a fourth minute lead. The men in yellow doubled their advantage when Mark Harris scored a second half goal. The Foxes snatched a late consolation to make it a tight finish, but United held on to take three points.
Next up The U’s face Birmingham City at the Kassam this Saturday at 3pm. They are still in dire straits, but the Leicester win was a real tonic. The men in yellow remain three points from safety, sitting in 23rd place in the battle at the bottom of the brutal league that is the Championship.
The Sports Desk
Property news
Chiltern Railways new train service for Oxfordshire travellers
Herald Series · January 27, 2026
Chiltern Railways will launch 13 new "Chiltern Explorer" trains in December 2026, adding 10,000 seats daily between London and the West Midlands, featuring modern amenities and improved accessibility. This investment aims to enhance regional connections, support local economic growth and promote sustainability within the rail system.
London, Oxford and Cambridge suffer steepest housing cost burden
City AM - January 26, 2026
A new report from the Centre for Cities reveals that Londoners spend the highest proportion of their income on housing in the UK at 19%, with young homeowners and renters facing even steeper costs. Despite government efforts to increase housebuilding, only a fraction of the targeted new homes were started last year, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by Britain’s restrictive planning system.
Controversial Oxpens Bridge construction takes step forward
BBC · January 28, 2026
Construction on the Oxpens River Bridge, connecting Oxpens Meadow to Grandpont Nature Park for walking and cycling, is set to begin this spring after Jacksons Civil Engineering Group was appointed as the contractor. Despite the project's progress and emphasis on preserving trees, opposition continues with protesters advocating against the bridge at a recent council meeting.
Councillor slams 'nonsense' surrounding plan to turn car park into site for housing
Yahoo News - January 28, 2026
Oxfordshire councillor Lidia Arciszewska has dismissed concerns over a plan to transform Woodford Way Car Park in Witney into 70 affordable homes as "nonsense," highlighting the project's alignment with the local plan. In response, Conservative leader Liam Walker highlighted residents’ worries about potential negative impacts on local businesses and called for more meaningful engagement from councillors.
Flooding on Witney housing estate 'worst it’s ever been'
Oxford Mail - January 27, 2026
Buttercross Lane in Witney has faced severe flooding again, prompting residents' frustration over inadequate council responses despite ongoing investigations for long-term solutions. The situation is compounded by rising water levels across Oxfordshire, with plans to enhance drainage and storage facilities being discussed as community members seek relief from persistent flooding issues.
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Tickets go on sale tomorrow for Rewind Festival 2026: Proclaimers and Human League to headline
BBC News · January 28, 2026
Join the celebration at the 18th Rewind Festival from August 21 to 23 at Temple Island Meadows, featuring headliners The Human League and The Proclaimers, along with popular acts like Kim Wilde and Tony Hadley. Tickets go on sale at 9am this Friday. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable weekend of nostalgia!
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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