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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 47
Oxford News By Hana Edition 47
Cinema non paradiso?
Mark Skipworth
March 19, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 47
Oxford Outlook: Cinema non paradiso?
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In the week of the Oscars, it seems especially appropriate to highlight the uncertain future of Oxford’s oldest cinema.
The Ultimate Picture Palace (UPP) in Jeune Street just off the Cowley Road has been showing films to the delight of audiences since before the First World War.
The city’s first purpose-built cinema has been a much loved “pillar of the community” for generations of movie goers. Housed in an historic Grade II-listed building, it is one of the oldest independent cinemas in England and apparently, with more than 1,200 shareholders, the only one which is community-owned. It has even been recognised as a community asset by the city council.
Richard Curtis, famous for directing Four Weddings and a Funeral and Love Actually, is said to have watched films there during his university days. He has called the UPP a “great cinema”.
Yet according to campaigners, the single-screen theatre is at risk of closure if Oriel College, which owns the building, decides not to renew its lease.
The UPP requires repairs that investors are willing to fund only if an extension to the lease, due to run out in 2037, is granted. In short, the future of the cinema is at crunch point.
Ominously, Oriel, part of Oxford University, has revealed it currently has no plans to extend the lease. And although the listed building cannot be demolished, it could be converted for alternative use. Some suggest the college wants to include the building in its ‘Fifth Quad’ development plans to accommodate graduate students. It’s all shaping up to be an epic town-vs-gown encounter.
Campaigners have launched a petition to save the cinema, to which, I’m pleased to say, thousands have already put their names. In addition, they are seeking to raise £50,000 to cover essential repairs.
Among the first to sign the petition was Dame Pippa Harris, the BAFTA-winning producer behind the Oscar-nominated film Hamnet. The filmmaker, who frequented the cinema as a teenager, said the venue inspired her career.
Who in the future will also be inspired by this little cinema? Help to keep open a cherished theatre screen in the heart of east Oxford – sign the petition, and let’s oppose those university money men who appear ‘to know the price of everything and the value of nothing’. Go to uppcinema.com
Henley-on-Thames, home of black-tie festivals and royal regattas, is bidding to become the UK’s first ever Town of Culture. Launched by the government last year, this prestigious title comes with a £3m boost for local arts and culture. An amount not to be sniffed at. What of the early competition? Well, there’s Slough. Yes, Slough. I don’t want to sound snobby but surely the Berkshire town’s strongest cultural claim to fame was as the excruciatingly apt location for The Office mockumentary? Unless, of course, you include Sir John Betjeman’s painful poem: “Come friendly bombs and fall on Slough! It isn't fit for humans…” In which case, perhaps Slough is more deserving of an arts and culture leg-up than its well-heeled Oxfordshire rival?
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
This week we focus on Oxford’s culture vultures and heritage hawks. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the city scores well.
Engaged with the arts
Oxford 93%, compared with a national local authority average of 91% in 2024. Close, but the city is a wing beat ahead on this metric.
Visited a heritage site
Oxford 72%, compared with a national local authority average of 67% in 2024. Again, not a huge difference but Oxford is still flapping ahead.
Visited a museum or gallery
Oxford 61%, compared with a national local authority average of 42% in 2024. Soaring in front. It should be noted, though, that the city has more museums and galleries per capita than many other local authorities.
Visited a public library
Oxford 35%, compared with a national local authority average of 25% in 2024. Again, a sky-high difference.
Conclusions? Well, it’s clear that, when it comes to culture and heritage, Oxford beats the rest of the nation on all of these measures. But let’s remember that Oxford is Oxford. Globally renowned. A city that offers so much in terms of lifting the spirit. So, a feather in its cap. But let’s make it a humble and thankful feather.
Source: Office for National Statistics
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Chancellor Rachel Reeves to double funding for ‘Oxford-Cambridge Silicon Valley'
BBC News · March 17, 2026
The UK government is set to launch a Greater Oxford development corporation to create a tech hub comparable to Silicon Valley following the establishment of a similar initiative in Cambridge. Chancellor Rachel Reeves will boost funding for the Oxford-Cambridge corridor from £400 million to £800 million in an effort to drive economic growth through enhanced infrastructure in both cities and their surrounding areas.
Campaign launched to secure long-term future of Oxford's oldest cinema
BBC News · March 13, 2026
Oxford's historic Ultimate Picture Palace, the city's first purpose-built cinema, opened in 1911, is at risk of closure if Oriel College does not renew its lease expiring in 2037. Campaigners are advocating for a long-term lease to secure funding for essential repairs, with notable supporters such as Dame Pippa Harris highlighting the cinema's inspirational role in their lives.
Better NHS care at Oxford hospitals trust ‘might have saved 58 babies’, investigation reveals
BBC · March 19, 2026
A BBC investigation has revealed that at least 58 babies at the Oxford University Hospitals Trust may have survived with better care, highlighting concerns of a "defensive culture" and missed opportunities among staff. Families are calling for a public inquiry into systemic issues within the trust as tragic outcomes continue to prompt criticism over accountability and care standards.
More than 1,600 noise complaints in Oxford last year
Oxford Mail · March 18, 2026
In 2025, Oxford City Council faced a surge in noise complaints, particularly from ongoing construction projects, yet issued only 30 enforcement notices and collected minimal fines. Residents have been encouraged to report disturbances using The Noise App, although the council no longer addresses night-time complaints, leaving many feeling distressed by persistent noise issues in their neighbourhoods.
Oxford professor responds to deadly meningitis outbreak
Oxford Mail · March 17, 2026
Following a meningitis B outbreak that tragically claimed the lives of two young individuals, Professor Andrew Pollard from the University of Oxford has called for a vaccination catch-up programme to protect those at risk, particularly young people born before 2015 who may not have received adequate immunisation. The UK Health Security Agency is advising hundreds of attendees from a recent event in Canterbury to take precautionary antibiotics while emphasising the need for proactive measures to enhance community immunity and prevent future outbreaks.
Motorist dies in collision with lorry on Oxfordshire’s ‘most dangerous’ A-road
BBC · March 17, 2026
A man in his 60s lost his life in a collision between his Subaru and a lorry on the A420 near Buckland, Oxfordshire, shortly after 09:30 a.m. on Monday. Thames Valley Police reported that the driver died at the scene, and his family is receiving support from specialist officers.
South East workers say £47,000 salary needed in order be comfortable
Oxford Mail · March 14, 2026
A survey by Reed reveals that professionals in the South East region face a £7,000 salary gap compared to the rising cost of living, with 22% expressing dissatisfaction with their earnings. As financial struggles intensify—28% having just £100 or less left after monthly bills—regional director Grant Rigler notes a cooling trend in the jobs market.
'Really special' Henley-on-Thames bids to become UK’s first Town of Culture
BBC News · March 16, 2026
Henley-on-Thames is competing for the UK’s inaugural Town of Culture title, showcasing its vibrant community theatre, music and heritage projects. The winning town will receive £3 million to boost local arts and culture, promoting inclusivity and future development. To date, other entries include Banbury, Woodley and Slough.
In-flight delivery service? Red kite with sausage roll snapped by Banbury photographer
BBC News · March 18, 2026
Amateur photographer Mark Hopkins captured a striking image of a red kite soaring over Banbury with what appears to be a sausage roll in its talons, showcasing the bird's adaptability and resilience in the UK. This sighting – from his Ruscote garden – highlights the remarkable recovery of red kites, once endangered.
Christian Horner and Geri Halliwell given three planning rules to obey for controversial pergola
Oxford Mail · March 17, 2026
Former Red Bull F1 boss Christian Horner and his wife Geri Halliwell have faced a backlash from neighbours over their oak-framed pergola and gazebo near Banbury, with concerns about the obstruction of views of a historic church. Although their new application for the pergola was approved, the gazebo's fate is still uncertain, and the local planning authority has set conditions for the development, including a requirement for a planting scheme to enhance the area's appearance.
River Thames sees biggest boat clean-up in years
BBC News · March 19, 2026
The Environment Agency (EA) is spearheading its largest clean-up of the River Thames in a decade, targeting over 100 abandoned boats, with 53 already removed. Emphasising accountability for boat owners, EA officials call for improved registration and safety compliance to restore the river's health and appeal.
Oxfordshire street lights to be turned off this year – but only on request
This is Oxfordshire · March 16, 2026
Oxfordshire County Council is allowing rural town and parish councils to request turning off streetlights overnight while urban areas such as Oxford will remain lit amid ongoing consultations and safety concerns raised by local authorities. Despite efforts to save energy with LED bulbs, the anticipated savings of £400,000 annually are not expected to materialise as major urban areas are excluded from the new scheme.
Jeremy Clarkson takes aim at Ed Miliband over his ‘warmer pints’ suggestion
Witney Gazette · March 18, 2026
Jeremy Clarkson has transformed the former Windmill pub in Asthall into The Farmer's Dog featuring his Hawkstone beer on tap as well as appearing in ‘Clarkson's Farm’ on TV. He criticised government minister Ed Miliband's energy-saving advice for pubs, firmly rejecting the suggestion of serving warmer pints amid rising energy costs.
Banbury owner of 'Britain's smallest dog' guilty of animal cruelty
BBC News · March 17, 2026
Gemma Blackman, known for claiming to own Britain's smallest dog, was sentenced for operating an illegal and cruel dog breeding business in Banbury where she bred dogs with genetic conditions without proper veterinary care. She received a community order banning her from breeding dogs for two years and was fined over £2,000 following an investigation triggered by a puppy buyer's complaint.
Oxford historian named 2026 Holberg Prize Laureate
Ox · March 17, 2026
Professor Lyndal Roper has been awarded the 2026 Holberg Prize for her groundbreaking contributions to early modern European history, particularly in witch persecutions and gender studies. As Emeritus Regius Professor of History at Oxford University, she emphasises the importance of humanities in fostering critical thinking, especially in an age of artificial intelligence.
'Next generation' LimeBikes available in Oxford from this week
Yahoo News · March 18, 2026
Lime has launched its next-generation LimeBikes in Oxford, featuring rear cargo storage and a new subscription model, LimePrime, to encourage residents to switch from cars and tackle congestion. With user feedback driving the design, these upgraded e-bikes aim to provide practical and sustainable transportation options for the local community.
Oxford study reveals fascinating new details about life of cavemen and women
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New research led by Tjaark Siemssen from the University of Oxford reveals that Neanderthals may have used birch tar, traditionally known as an adhesive, for its antibiotic properties to treat injuries. This finding not only underscores the healthcare practices of Neanderthals but also highlights the potential of natural ingredients in combating today's antimicrobial resistance crisis.
Harry Potter star Emma Watson 'happiest and healthiest' ever
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Emma Watson, the beloved actress known for her role as Hermione Granger, is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in creative writing at Oxford University after taking a break from acting. She has expressed that stepping back from public life has brought her unprecedented happiness and personal growth, all while enjoying financial security.
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Dougie Haynes, a 31-year-old caddy from Oxford, is nearing the end of his 3,000km charity trek across New Zealand, having recently conquered the rugged Te Araroa Trail between Havelock and Christchurch. After a week of recovery in Christchurch, he’s preparing to tackle the challenging section past Mount Cook, the country’s tallest peak, as he continues his six-month adventure.
Sport
Oxford Outlook: The U’s
Oxford United followed up an excellent win against Blackburn Rovers with a slightly disappointing 1-1 draw with Charlton Athletic at home on Saturday. Three points would have been ideal. But the men in yellow appear incapable of securing back to back victories.
Still, all is not lost. Charlton’s 93rd minute penalty equaliser was a blow. But United are just one point away from climbing out of the relegation zone with eight games to go.
The U’s face Southampton away on Saturday at 3pm. The Saints are improving and lie seventh in the table. A tough match for Oxford, who sit in 22nd.
The Sports Desk
Beards off as Oxford United finally get penalty after 675 days
BBC · March 16, 2026
After a 675-day wait, Oxford United was awarded a penalty, scored by Cameron Brannagan, marking a triumphant moment for fans. Dedicated supporter Gary Hudson, who had vowed not to shave until the team received a penalty, humorously revealed his new look live on BBC Radio Oxford after fundraising for mental health charity The Joey Beauchamp Foundation.
Property news
Sustainable travel to be prioritised in Oxfordshire town strategy
This is Oxfordshire · March 18, 2026
Oxfordshire County Council has adopted a 25-year movement and place plan for Bicester, prioritising walking, cycling and public transport to tackle congestion and enhance sustainability amid projected population growth. Meanwhile, the Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire area, featuring key employment hubs like the Harwell Campus and Culham Science Centre, offers excellent transport links and a blend of historical charm and modern amenities for residents and businesses.
Homebuilder to host open house weekend at Oxfordshire development Yahoo News - March 15, 2026 Join David Wilson Homes for an open house weekend on March 14 and 15 at The Meadows at Abbey Fields in Abingdon, where you can explore a stunning five-bedroom Manning-style home featuring an open-plan kitchen and a formal dining room. Take advantage of their Part Exchange scheme to simplify your move—no estate agent fees or property chains! |
Podcast: Simon Ruck, managing director of Oxford North UK Property Forums - March 17, 2026 In the latest episode of Battle and Co, Simon Ruck from Oxford North discusses the innovative mixed-use development designed to foster community and collaboration in Oxford, featuring 317 completed residential units and versatile commercial spaces. Tune in to explore the project's vision and its significance for the city! |
Housing market ‘struggling for momentum amid global uncertainty’ Oxford Mail - March 12, 2026 The RICS reports a mixed property market outlook for February, with rising inflation and interest rates dampening overall confidence despite some surveyors noting a stronger start to the year. While short-term sales expectations are pessimistic, there remains cautious optimism for improved activity over the next year, particularly in regions like Northern Ireland and the North West. |
Oxford’s unique retail market thriving through placemaking - Vail Williams Oxford's retail market stands out as a beacon of economic success, blending independent shops, historical attractions, and a vibrant atmosphere that captivates both locals and tourists. This unique mix not only enhances the shopping experience but also supports community engagement, making Oxford a model of resilience in the face of challenges faced by other high streets. |
Decision due on hundreds of Oxford council homes in Blackbird Leys BBC News - March 18, 2026 Oxford City Council is moving forward with a £97.6 million project to build 331 affordable homes at Sandy Lane, addressing the housing crisis while relocating existing football pitches to nearby facilities. Local coach Natalie Webb raises concerns about losing the community space, but officials assure that new sports amenities will be ready by summer 2027. |
Zedwell unveils plans for Oxford hotel Property Week - March 17, 2026 Criterion Capital's Zedwell hospitality platform is set to open a new hotel in central Oxford, transforming Oxenford House into a modern accommodation option near key cultural landmarks. This expansion follows Zedwell's recent projects, including the world's largest capsule hotel, with plans to add over 9,000 rooms to its portfolio by 2028. |
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Free Park & Ride travel for English Tourism Week
Oxford Mail · March 18, 2026
Oxford Bus Company is celebrating English Tourism Week by offering free travel on its Park & Ride services until Sunday, aiming to boost accessibility to Oxford's city centre and alleviate traffic congestion. Visitors can park for £2.50 and receive a complimentary return bus ticket, while Experience Oxfordshire promotes local tourism businesses to highlight the visitor economy's importance.
24 star Kiefer Sutherland in Oxford for penultimate tour
Oxford Mail · March 18, 2026
Kiefer Sutherland is set to embark on his "Love Will Bring You Home Tour," kicking off from April 14 to May 27, featuring both new music from his upcoming album "Grey" as well as fan favourites. He will be at the Oxford 02 Academy in May.
Iconic Irish group announce Oxford dates
Oxford Mail · March 17, 2026
Catch the mesmerising "Lord of the Dance" at the Oxford New Theatre from July 10 to 12 as part of its 30th anniversary tour, showcasing 40 talented Irish tap dancers in a stunning blend of tradition and modernity. Though Michael Flatley has retired from performing, he remains involved with the production and is excited to bring the show back to the UK in 2026.
All photos are credited to Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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