- Oxford News By HANA
- Posts
- Oxford News By Hana Edition 42
Oxford News By Hana Edition 42
Fixing a Hole
Mark Skipworth
February 05, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 42
Oxford Outlook: Fixing a Hole
Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here for instant sign-up.
The Oxford congestion charge, I can confidently announce today, has been overtaken in the local unpopularity stakes. The mantle of shame has been passed to… you guessed it, the humble pothole!
Fresh criticism has been levelled against the state of potholes in Oxfordshire this winter. The recent wet weather has led to a rise in reports and in response, the county council says it has increased its repair crews to help reduce the backlog.
Nevertheless, in January, 35% of repairs to larger potholes, which the council aims to complete within 28 days, missed the deadline. It blamed the failure on the increase in reports and that the crews were having to deal with many larger holes. (Where was Bernard Cribbins when we needed him, I hear you ask?)
But it’s not just potholes that are blighting the county. Venture on any rural road and more than likely you will face an assault course of broken surfaces that threaten to wreck your tyres, suspension or worse.
The Government provided Oxfordshire with funding of £168 million up to 2030 in order to fix its pothole crisis. Disappointingly, in a Department for Transport traffic light system, the county was ranked ‘amber’ for its pothole performance, based on road conditions and how it is spending the money it receives.
Council elders have hit back, claiming the real cause of the problem is down to the systemic underfunding of local government. More than 41,000 highways defects were reported to the council in the last 12 months, around 90 per cent of which were potholes.
Leaving aside the Big Politics, there seems to be another aspect to this mess. Road users are loudly critical of the quality of pothole repairs which often keep on failing. According to one of many frustrated residents on the Oxford Mail website, so many of the repairs result “in the same potholes (and cracking surfaces around them) being repaired year in year and even more often”.
Still, as one wag put it, bringing us neatly back to the congestion charge: “No need to repair the roads in Oxford if there are no cars”. Fair point.
* J K Rowling, the annual Sunday Times Tax List reveals, paid about £47m last year, roughly equivalent to £130,00 a day, despite her public disagreement over transgender rights with Emma Watson who is currently studying for a DPhil at Oxford University. Clearly, judging by the huge amount of tax Rowling shelled out, the row over their differing transgender views has not harmed the bestselling author of the Harry Potter books. When American showman P.T. Barnum said all publicity is good publicity, he was bang on the money!
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
Make Oxford an even better community - share Oxford by Hana with friends and family for a more informed and better run city - local news and views you can use - forward this link for instant sign up
Databox
This week we focus on Oxford’s population and population density. Sounds a bit dull, but bear with us. The numbers are actually quite interesting. Our city (or “non-metropolitan district” as the Office for National Statistics rather unromantically prefers to describe this jewel embedded in the very heart of England) is a strange brew.
Total population Oxford 166,034, slightly higher than the national local authority average of 148,448 in 2024.
Population density (per square kilometre) Oxford 3,641. Vastly in excess of the national local authority average of 580 in 2024.
Five year population change Oxford 3.3%, marginally lower than the national local authority average of 3.7% in 2024.
Median age Oxford 31, a country mile below the national local authority average of 42 in 2024.
Population aged 0-15 Oxford 15.5%, slightly below the national local authority average of 17.7% in 2024.
Population aged 16-64 Oxford 72.4%, significantly higher than the national local authority average of 61.4% in 2024.
Population aged 65 and over Oxford 12.1%, considerably lower than the national local authority average of 20.2% in 2024.
Pick the bones out of that. The numbers suggest Oxford is a popular place in which to live and work – the density data alone proves the point. Yet population growth is below the national average.
The age demographics are intriguing. Oxford is skewed towards young adults and middle-aged people. Presumably, when folk hit 65 they think: “Well, it’s been fun. But now we fancy a cottage in the Cotswolds.”
Source: ONS
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Oxfordshire transport chief hits back at pothole criticism
Oxford Mail · February 2, 2026
Oxfordshire's 'amber' pothole performance rating has sparked criticism from local MPs who are calling for greater government support to tackle the deteriorating road conditions. In response, the county council is ramping up its repair crews to address the growing backlog of potholes exacerbated by recent weather challenges.
Fourth arrest over Oxfordshire mountain of illegally dumped rubbish
BBC News · February 3, 2026
A fourth man has been arrested in connection with the illegal dumping of 21,000 tonnes of waste in Kidlington, Oxfordshire, following previous arrests made in November and last week. The Environment Agency declared a critical incident at the site due to the massive pile of refuse, which includes processed domestic waste and other materials, prompting Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds to call the latest arrest "an important step towards justice."
Oxford commuters slam 'shambles' train station project
Oxford Mail · February 2, 2026
Major work on the crucial rail bridge replacement at Oxford station is underway as part of a £237m Network Rail project, with completion expected by Sunday and the reopening of Botley Road set for the end of August. Despite the anticipated enhancements, local commuters remain frustrated by ongoing disruptions and the lack of funding for key infrastructure improvements.
Duke of Marlborough in court charged with strangling estranged wife
BBC News · February 5, 2026
The Duke of Marlborough, Charles James Spencer-Churchill, has been charged with strangling his estranged wife, Edla Marlborough, on three occasions over 18 months, to which he has previously indicated not guilty pleas. A court hearing is set for April 27 to hear an application to dismiss the case, with a trial scheduled for January 2028, while the duke remains on bail.
Oxford woman ‘spots Donald Trump's face in her toast’
Oxford Mail · January 29, 2026
In a quirky breakfast revelation, Ashling Sans, who lives in Oxford and Spain, spotted the face of Donald Trump on her slice of Irish Kerrygold toast, complete with a frowning butter expression and crusty eyebrows. While she snapped a photo of the supposed likeness, she ultimately enjoyed the toast, although the crusts she fed to visiting wild boar near her house in Mojacar..
Oxford University ditches entry exams for Classics
Oxford University has removed entrance tests for subjects such as Classics and philosophy to enhance accessibility and equity in admissions, shifting focus to personal statements and interviews. This decision has generated debate regarding its potential impact on academic standards and the quality of applicants at the prestigious institution.
Flood alerts issued for parts of Oxford and Oxfordshire
Yahoo News · February 3, 2026
Flood alerts have been issued for more than a dozen areas in Oxfordshire, including Oxford, due to high river levels on the Thames and its tributaries. Residents are urged to avoid low-lying areas as flooding is expected, particularly in New Botley and along the River Cherwell, while the weather forecast predicts a mix of sunny spells and rain throughout the week.
The Oxfordshire residents scared to flush the loo after flooding
BBC · February 2, 2026
Residents of Anderson Place and Whitfield Gardens in East Hanney are grappling with a sewage crisis after heavy rains overwhelmed their private sewer systems, leading to waste entering homes and fears about toilet use. With Thames Water's treatment facilities at capacity, residents have resorted to hiring tankers for temporary relief, but the solution is proving ineffective as sewage quickly fills up again.
JK Rowling is paying £47.5m a year in tax despite Emma Watson comments
Oxford Mail · January 31, 2026
J.K. Rowling recently criticised Emma Watson over her comments on transgender issues, highlighting a rift between them after Watson and her co-stars publicly supported transgender rights. Rowling, who ranks as one of the top taxpayers in the UK, expressed concern that Watson's privileged background has led her to misunderstand women's struggles, sparking a heated exchange following Watson's remarks on a mental health podcast about their relationship.
Consultation on Oxfordshire Fire Service cuts sees 1,500 responses
BBC · February 3, 2026
Oxfordshire County Council's controversial plans to restructure its fire and rescue service have sparked significant public response, with 1,500 submissions received amid concerns over potential fire station closures. The Fire Brigades Union warns that the proposals could jeopardise safety for both firefighters and the public.
Magdalen College School to accept girls into its main student body for first time in its 500-year history
BBC News · February 3, 2026
Magdalen College School in Oxford, a prestigious independent school founded in 1480, will begin accepting girls into its main student body starting in 2027, expanding from its previous co-educational sixth form policy established 15 years ago. This historic shift marks a significant change for the nearly 550-year-old institution, which was recently listed among the Top 20 Independent Schools by The Sunday Times.
Grammy Award-nominated NYC musician joins Oxford University
Oxford Mail · February 3, 2026
Nico Muhly, a renowned composer with an impressive track record of collaborations and commissions, has been appointed as the first composer-in-residence at Christ Church College where he aims to enhance daily worship through new compositions that honour the college's musical traditions. His role comes at a pivotal time, coinciding with significant anniversaries for the Cathedral Choir, and promises to inspire both young musicians and the wider musical community.
Afghanistan man charged with rape, kidnap and sexual assault
Oxford Mail · February 1, 2026
Najeebullah Arab, a 39-year-old Afghan national from Grove, has been charged with kidnap, rape, and sexual assault following separate incidents involving two women earlier this year. He is currently in police custody and was due to appear at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court last Monday, while investigations into additional alleged assaults continue.
Kim Kardashian and new beau Sir Lewis Hamilton spotted at luxury Cotswolds hotel
Cotswold Journal · February 4, 2026
Kim Kardashian and Sir Lewis Hamilton were spotted enjoying a romantic weekend at the luxurious Estelle Manor in the Cotswolds, a celebrity hotspot featuring a Roman-inspired spa and opulent accommodations. After their stay, the pair continued their getaway at London’s Rosewood Hotel before heading to Paris.
Oxford academics among the first Fellows of the Academy for the Mathematical Sciences
Ox · January 29, 2026
The Academy for the Mathematical Sciences, launched in September 2023 in the UK, has appointed its inaugural Fellows to address critical national issues through mathematics, including education and climate change. Founding President Dame Alison Etheridge and Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance praised the Fellows for their exceptional contributions and commitment to enhancing the role of mathematical sciences in society.
Oxfordshire campaigners hand greenway petition to Downing Street
BBC · February 5, 2026
Local campaigners and MPs, led by Liberal Democrat Freddie van Mierlo, gathered at Downing Street to urge for a safe greenway route for cyclists and pedestrians between Thame and Haddenham, presenting a petition with over 3,600 signatures. The proposed route aims to provide a vital alternative to the hazardous A418 and is part of Oxfordshire County Council's strategic plan, with hopes to finalise it by 2027.
New space satellite lab at Harwell 'puts UK on the map'
BBC News · February 5, 2026
The newly opened Disruptive Experimental Electric Propulsion (DEEP) Lab in Oxfordshire, funded partially by the UK Space Agency, aims to enhance electric propulsion testing for satellites, supporting both start-ups and established aerospace firms. Space Minister Liz Lloyd highlighted its potential to drive innovation and solidify the UK's leadership in space technology.
Oxfordshire 'meadow school' under threat from development
BBC · February 4, 2026
Plans for a "meadow school" designed to help older children connect with nature are at risk due to Oxford City Council's proposal to develop the land for housing. Led by former GP Evelyn Sanderson and supported by the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust, the initiative aims to promote local biodiversity and support young people's mental health, with plans for a £4.1 million lottery funding application to make it a community resource.
Sport
Oxford Outlook: The U’s
Just as a wonderful win away to Leicester City offered Oxford a glimmer of hope in the Championship, normal service was swiftly resumed. Two defeats in the space of four days.
A 2-0 reverse against Birmingham City at home on Saturday was bad enough. But a 3-1 defeat to Sheffield United away on Tuesday night was even worse. The Blades are bang below average in the English second tier.
The table now makes grim reading for United fans. Their team have scraped together a meagre 27 points, leaving them five points adrift of safety from relegation – more like six if goal difference is factored in.
The U’s now appear to be in a dog fight with Blackburn Rovers and West Brom – both of them are on 32 points – to avoid the drop.
Next up for the men in yellow are league leaders Coventry City away this Saturday at 3.01pm. A bizarre kick-off time but football is basically bonkers nowadays. Forecast? To borrow from the Eurovision Song Contest, expect “nil points”.
The Sports Desk
Ruben Roosken joins Oxford United from Huddersfield Town
BBC Sport · February 2, 2026
Oxford United has secured defender Ruben Roosken on loan from Huddersfield for the season, with a potential option to buy. The 25-year-old, who has made 40 appearances for Huddersfield, expressed his excitement about reuniting with former teammate Brian De Keersmaecker and his eagerness to contribute to the club's success.
Property news
Salt Cross: Carbon neutral village plans approved by government
BBC · February 4, 2026
The government has approved plans for Salt Cross, a carbon-neutral village in West Oxfordshire designed to house 5,000 residents with 2,200 homes, schools and community facilities. This innovative development, supported by a recent High Court ruling, aims to set a benchmark for net-zero living.
Update on Pink Floyd legend's former Oxfordshire mansion Oxford Mail - January 29, 2026 David Gilmour's former residence, Hook End Manor, is a historic property in South Oxfordshire that has undergone restoration for commercial use, including its renowned recording studio, which has attracted numerous legendary artists over the years. Although the manor is currently uninhabited, it is actively maintained and remains a celebrated creative haven for musicians. |
Social housing rent in Oxford increased by council Oxford Mail - February 3, 2026 Starting April 1, social rents in the city will rise by 4.8% to an average of £143.40 per week, a move approved unanimously by the council to support housing investments and ensure financial sustainability amidst the cost-of-living crisis. This adjustment aims to address rent disparities among tenants, particularly benefiting those in long-term housing. |
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Snowdrops at Welford Park: Opening Times 2026
Welford Park invites visitors to its stunning grounds for the Snowdrops event from January 28 to March 1, 2026. As a private working farm and family home, it opens its doors during select times of the year for seasonal events in its historic setting.
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
This newsletter was partly curated and summarised by AI agents, who can make mistakes. Check all vital information.
For any issues or inaccuracies, please notify us here
View our AI Ethics Policy