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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 52
Oxford News By Hana Edition 52
Tracks of our tears
Mark Skipworth
April 23, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 52
Oxford Outlook: Tracks of our tears
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Who knew? The East West Rail line from Oxford to Milton Keynes, it turns out, has been available for passengers to use since 2024 but instead, empty trains continue to roll down its tracks.
Even a new station at Winslow in Buckinghamshire remains unopened, the line only being used for freight services and training runs, according to a BBC report in this week’s newsletter.
Campaigners say the government has completely failed to get passenger services up and running. “We're almost at May and still no information at all about when it's going to open or if it's ever going to open, or just be a freight route," said one would-be passenger. You can understand her frustration.
The delays, it’s said, have disrupted the commuting plans of people who moved to the area for job opportunities. "There are young people getting two or three buses to get to a job in Bicester at the moment and some of them not managing to keep their jobs because of how hard that can be.”
Now a petition is calling for the line to open to passengers and has so far amassed more than 2,000 signatures.
In the face of this latest infrastructure debacle, the blame game begins: the government claims the delays are down to train modifications and testing, driver training and staffing arrangements, even the 2024 general election; the unions say the project has been held back by years of indecision, rising costs and “unresolved planning issues”; for its part, Chiltern Railways, which has been appointed to run the services and manage the new station, is still in dispute with the unions over driver-only operated trains.
It could be a long wait before the signals change from red to green. Meanwhile, the poor commuter is left to suffer. What a mess!
* With judicious timing, Heidi Alexander, the Labour government’s transport secretary, has let it be known that her Mini Cooper recently struck an Oxfordshire pothole that was so large and deep the astronauts on Artemis II might have seen a similar-sized crater during their voyage around the Moon. A jokey remark, of course, but one aimed firmly at the Liberal Democrat-run Oxfordshire County Council (OCC).
There are no OCC elections next month, but seats are up for grabs in Oxford City Council, West Oxfordshire and Cherwell Districts. So it was oddly comforting in these troubled times to hear Alexander, MP for Swindon South, returning to some good, old-fashioned knock-about electioneering.
Mind you, the elders at OCC have nothing to brag about. The county’s pothole crisis is dire, as the government’s new mapping tool for motorists reveals.
These are dark days for football fans in Oxford. United are on the brink of being turfed out of the Championship while City are perilously close to losing their status in the National League. You have to wonder whether The U’s new Kidlington stadium can really be justified when the men’s side is in such a parlous state (see Sport below).
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
Continuing our trip up and down the Bristol-Oxford-Cambridge tech arc, let’s examine how these splendid cities compare in terms of access to amenities.
Supermarkets (per 10,000 population, 2023)
Bristol: 2.9 Oxford: 3.3 Cambridge: 3.3
Sports facilities (per 10,000 population, 2023)
Bristol: 11.4 Oxford: 22.1 Cambridge: 23.2
Museums (per 10,000 population, 2021)
Bristol: 3.0 Oxford: 8.0 Cambridge: 9.6
Residents within a 30 minute walk of their nearest library (2024)
Bristol: 97% Oxford: 98% Cambridge: 90%
Residents within a 30 minute walk of their nearest railway station (2024)
Bristol: 60% Oxford: 26% Cambridge: 61%
This data is important for younger people, many of whom work in the tech sector. Access to supermarkets and sports facilities stands out. Food and fitness are key considerations for the under-30s in weighing up how well they are served by their cities. Oxford is OK for supermarkets and does well for sports facilities.
Museums and libraries may come down the list of priorities for this demographic, although Oxford does well on both measures and extremely well when it comes to libraries. Maybe tech-savvy, bright young things aren’t borrowing books, but libraries can be quiet places to get the laptop out, away from noisy flatmates (although coffee shops appear to be more popular).
Getting to work is a key metric for younger people and Oxford scores poorly on the railway station stat, miles behind Bristol and Cambridge.
Attracting talent to these tech arc cities is a competitive business.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Petition is launched to push for start of East West Rail passenger services
BBC News · April 20, 2026
A petition for passenger services on the East West Rail line from Oxford to Milton Keynes has garnered over 2,000 signatures, as frustrated commuters await start-up of the service despite completed infrastructure since October 2024. Delays have been attributed to factors such as necessary train modifications and staffing challenges, with critics citing indecision and planning issues as hindrances to progress.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander's car damaged by Oxfordshire pothole
BBC News · April 16, 2026
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander humorously likened a pothole that damaged her Mini Cooper on the B4437 near Burford to a lunar crater, while Oxfordshire County Council defended its road maintenance efforts, blaming government funding cuts for the county’s ongoing pothole crisis.
Celebrated tree by Oxford University college falls on busy city centre street
Oxford Mail · April 21, 2026
A beloved tree on Broad Street near Trinity College collapsed on April 21, blocking the city centre street and prompting clean-up efforts by Oxfordshire County Council. Local residents mourn its loss, reflecting on fond memories of enjoying lunch beneath its branches near the historical site of the Protestant martyrs' executions.
PC Andrew Harper memorial to be unveiled at Reading ceremony
BBC News · April 23, 2026
A memorial for PC Andrew Harper, from Wallingford, who was killed while confronting quad bike thieves in Berkshire in 2019, will be unveiled today (Thursday) outside Forbury Gardens in Reading. His death led to tougher legislation for crimes against emergency workers; three teenagers involved received custodial sentences for manslaughter. The memorial will highlight Andrew’s dedication to public service.
World-first nuclear fusion centre established in Oxfordshire
BBC News · April 16, 2026
The UK has launched its first-ever Diagnostics Innovation Centre of Excellence (DICE) in Culham, Oxfordshire, to enhance research in nuclear fusion, focusing on live plasma analysis crucial for energy generation. This facility reflects the growing global interest and demand for advancements in fusion technology, driven by the UK Atomic Energy Agency's expertise.
Oxfordshire fire stations closure plan is officially scrapped
BBC · April 21, 2026
Oxfordshire County Council has reversed plans to close three fire stations after receiving over 1,500 public objections, with Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall emphasising the need for recruitment to bolster on-call firefighter availability. The updated strategy also includes halting the removal of a second fire engine at Thame and pausing decisions on a new north Oxford fire station amid ongoing negotiations.
Oxford Warneford Hospital development plans approved
Oxford Mail · April 22, 2026
Oxford City Council has greenlit plans to transform the Warneford Hospital site into a modern mental health facility, partnering with the University of Oxford and a local benefactor. The project will enhance patient care by incorporating therapeutic spaces and also convert the historic building into a postgraduate college, fostering education and advancing mental health research.
Fire rips through Clarkson's Farm star Kaleb Cooper's barn
Witney Gazette · April 22, 2026
Kaleb Cooper, a 27-year-old farmhand and star of Amazon Prime's "Clarkson's Farm", has faced a devastating barn fire that has destroyed his property, prompting him to seek help for replacement straw on social media. Known for his honest portrayal of farming challenges, he continues to be a vocal advocate for British agriculture while balancing life as a father of three with his partner Taya.
Zero net migration would shrink UK GDP by 15% by 2060, Oxford Economics warns
MercoPress · April 22, 2026
A report by Oxford Economics warns that a long-term scenario of zero net migration could shrink the UK's economy by 15% by 2060, limiting GDP growth to just 0.9%. This would lead to significant fiscal challenges, including lower tax revenues and difficult government decisions regarding public spending and pensions.
Oxfordshire residents warned about series of tip closures
BBC · April 22, 2026
Oxfordshire County Council is temporarily closing six household waste recycling centres for deep cleaning and maintenance, with each site shutting down for two weekdays between May and June. Additionally, the Redbridge HWRC in Oxford will undergo a three-month closure this summer for safety work, followed by a deep clean later in the year.
Oxford scientists make 'impossible' molecule in breakthrough research
Yahoo News · April 18, 2026
Researchers at Oxford University, led by Professor Meera Mehta, have successfully stabilised nitrogen chains of four atoms, previously thought to exist only under extreme conditions. This breakthrough opens new avenues for nitrogen-based materials with potential applications in advanced propellants and non-toxic energy storage solutions, while challenging long-held assumptions about nitrogen's behaviour.
Oxford MP calls for long-term lease for community-run Ultimate Picture Palace
BBC News · April 21, 2026
Oxford MP Dame Anneliese Dodds has urged Oriel College to grant a long-term lease for the community-run Ultimate Picture Palace which seeks improvements and has significant local support. Despite having plans for a new graduate student quad, Oriel College's refusal to extend the lease could jeopardise the cinema's future, which is seen as vital for providing affordable cultural experiences to the East Oxford community.
Police warning as screws placed on Witney road to deter parking
Oxford Mail · April 22, 2026
Thames Valley Police are investigating a troubling situation in Witney where screws have repeatedly been found on the road at the Donnington Close junction, seemingly placed to deter parking. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity, as this poses serious risks to vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and animals.
Secret Oxfordshire: The Bicester site delivering vinyl revival
BBC News · April 18, 2026
Vinyl records are experiencing a remarkable revival, with sales hitting a 30-year high in 2024, largely fuelled by a state-of-the-art depot near Bicester that has shipped over 15 million records since opening in 2023. After the recent Record Store Day, interest from younger audiences and nostalgic collectors alike is soaring, spotlighting exclusive releases from top artists like Taylor Swift and Pink Floyd.
Ex-Oxford University student 'swung sledgehammer at police officer'
Oxford Mail · April 22, 2026
Samuel Corner, a Palestine Action activist, is on trial for allegedly injuring Police Sergeant Kate Evans with a sledgehammer during a protest at an Elbit Systems site in Bristol, claiming he acted to protect a fellow activist. Alongside five others facing criminal damage charges, Corner denies intending to harm anyone, asserting their goal was to disrupt the production of weapons.
Firefighters rescue 'exhausted' horse stuck in Denchworth mud
BBC News · April 18, 2026
Firefighters in Oxfordshire successfully rescued an exhausted horse trapped in mud, using specialised equipment to ensure its safe extraction. The quick response and teamwork of the emergency services were praised by local authorities, as the horse was reported to be recovering well after being safely returned to its owner.
Newly opened Blenheim Palace archives reveal 'hidden' stories
BBC News · April 21, 2026
Blenheim Palace has digitised and catalogued over 200 historical documents from 1616 to 1836, revealing invaluable insights into the local histories of Wolvercote, Godstow and Cutteslowe in Oxfordshire. Volunteer archivist Michael Daniell highlights that this new resource enables deeper exploration of these communities' rich pasts.
BBC News · April 20, 2026
Desmond Morris, the influential zoologist and author of The Naked Ape, passed away at 98, leaving behind a legacy that challenged perceptions of human behaviour through an evolutionary lens. His groundbreaking work, which sold 20 million copies, explored the innate traits shaped by evolution, sparking both interest and controversy, particularly regarding gender roles and sexuality.
Sport
Oxford Outlook: The U’s
Great Tom is poised to toll on Oxford United’s miserable season. The city’s loudest bell, housed in Tom Tower, at the entrance to Christ Church, will peal perhaps a reverberating signal of League One football for The U’s.
There is still hope, but it’s the hope that kills you. A narrow 1-0 defeat away to Derby County last Saturday was no disgrace – the Rams are resurgent. But a 1-0 loss at home to Wrexham on Tuesday night hammered the final nail in United’s coffin to within half an inch of relegation.
The men in yellow face two final fixtures in the Championship: Sheffield Wednesday at home (Saturday, 25 April, 3pm) and Millwall away (Saturday, 2 May, 12.30pm).
The U’s need to win both matches to cling on to Championship status. Two wins would secure survival by goal difference but only if other results go their way. A win against the demoted Owls is a possibility, but three points against the Millwall Lions, roaring for an automatic promotion place, is highly unlikely.
The fruits of this season have turned decidedly sour for United. And given the proposed move to a spanking new stadium near Kidlington (complete with hotel), it’s been nothing short of a disaster.
The U’s are doomed and the bell will soon toll. There is an inscription on Great Tom. Translated from Latin, part of it reads: “Great Thomas the door closer of Oxford.” Enough said.
The Sports Desk
Oxford City fights for survival following 2-1 defeat
Yahoo News · April 21, 2026
Oxford City is facing a critical battle for survival after a 2-1 defeat to promotion-chasing Chester, despite a spirited second-half effort highlighted by Matty Taylor's goal. With their National League status on the line, City must secure a victory against Darlington while hoping for favourable outcomes in matches involving Bedford, Hereford, King's Lynn and Curzon Ashton.
Property news
Fears over 'forever chemicals' at Oxfordshire housing development site
BBC News · April 21, 2026
Concerns are rising among residents near the former RAF Upper Heyford base in Oxfordshire over potential PFAS contamination linked to planned housing developments, with testing urged due to alarming levels of "forever chemicals" found in a nearby brook. Community advocates call for collaboration with developers to ensure safety for local families and pets as they navigate the challenges of redevelopment.
Bourton-on-the-Water cottage visited by Kourtney Kardashian
Cotswold Journal · April 22, 2026
A reality TV star from "Keeping Up With the Kardashians" recently enjoyed a magical stay at Stepping Stones cottage in Bourton-on-the-Water, calling it “Dreamy storybook fairytale enchantment.” This beautifully renovated three-bedroomed cottage, alongside charming riverside dining and scenic stone bridges, offers a cosy retreat for up to five guests in the picturesque Cotswolds.
Concern among local residents as numerous Traveller caravans appear on Oxfordshire park
Oxford Mail · April 21, 2026
An unauthorised encampment of at least 30 caravans has emerged in Caversfield Park near Bicester, raising safety concerns among local residents who frequently use the park for recreational activities. Thames Valley Police are monitoring the situation, but community members express frustration over the perceived lack of action and fear for their safety.
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Oxford: Pride events to celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week
Oxford Mail · April 21, 2026
Join us for Lesbian Visibility Week taking place till Sunday in Oxfordshire, featuring events such as a queer-themed book discussion and Queer Life Drawing sessions. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with your community and promote health and wellbeing leading up to Oxford Pride!
Opening date confirmed for Oxford’s exciting new Lego store
This is Oxfordshire · April 22, 2026
A new Lego store is set to open at the Westgate shopping centre in Oxford on May 7, marking the county's first dedicated outlet. Designed as a hub for Lego enthusiasts, the store will feature iconic Oxford landmarks made from Lego bricks and host product launches and community events for builders of all ages.
Oxfordshire spa named among 'most beautiful' in world
Witney Gazette · April 22, 2026
PURE Spa Witney Lakes has been named the third-best spa in the UK by SpaSeekers, nestling in the scenic Oxfordshire countryside. This recognition comes as interest in relaxing holidays soars, highlighting the spa's luxurious offerings and beautiful surroundings that elevate the wellness experience.
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