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Oxford News By Hana Edition 53

Oxford News By Hana Edition 53

Beware the gift bearers

Mark Skipworth
April 30, 2026

Oxford News by HANA - Edition 53

Oxford Outlook: Beware the gift bearers

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Who said culture was elitist? Last weekend, Oxford’s Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities flung open its doors to welcome for the first time the great unwashed – that’s to say, members of the general public.

This “magnificent new monument to secular culture”, in the words of The Guardian, treated more than 10,000 visitors to a free day of live music, theatre and pop-up events.

Designed as both a world-class arts centre and an academic building, the Schwarzman unveiled its 250-seat theatre, recital hall and exhibition spaces as well as launching its 500-seat Sohmen Concert Hall to rapturous reviews.

Besides its public programme, the centre, located in the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, has close links with Oxford University, serving as a hub for seven of its internationally recognised arts and humanities faculties.

Altogether impressive, thanks to a £185m donation to the university from Blackstone co-founder Stephen A. Schwarzman, said to be its single largest donation since the Renaissance.

Nevertheless, the mutterings and grumblings about the source of the gift continue in scholarly circles.

Given the centre is now up and running, it’s somewhat “academic” perhaps to recall that firms owned by Blackstone, one of the world’s biggest asset management companies, have been criticised for their business practices, not least by UN officials. In 2019, a letter signed by scores of Oxford academics, students and local residents claimed the centre was being “built with the proceeds of the exploitation and disenfranchisement of vulnerable people across the world”.

Schwarzman himself is considered a long-time friend and ally of US President Donald Trump, which critics have been quick to exploit.

The university is no stranger to controversial benefactors. Cecil Rhodes’ racial prejudices did not prevent it from accepting his Rhodes Scholarship scheme; Lord Nuffield’s hostility to organised labour as well as his questionable political views did not stop him from being allowed to establish a new college within the university.

Such philanthropic stabs at immortality may have achieved their self-regarding objectives, for the names of these benefactors will forever be associated with the prominent buildings or schemes they helped to fund, yet few people today, beyond professional historians, have a clue about what they did or how they lived their lives. Isn’t it about time we found out?

We’re just a week away from the council elections in Oxford City, Cherwell and West Oxfordshire Districts. (South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse Districts are without elections this year.) It’s a real shame there are no elections next week for Oxfordshire County Council because its lamentable transport services need to be held to account. In the midst of Oxfordshire’s pothole crisis, there has been a flurry of activity to “surface dress” some of the roads in my corner of the county. Progress of sorts, you might think. But this soon descended into chaos and confusion because the closure dates on the temporary road signs were incorrect and an apparent lack of co-ordination meant several Thames bridges – the only ones for miles around – might be out of action at the same time, thus making north-south travel well-nigh impossible. Driven round the bend?

Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor

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Databox

This week, we focus on Oxford’s geography and topography, its high points and its low points:

Area

17.6 sq miles (46 sq km). Smallish but perfectly formed, many would argue. While parts of the urban area are densely developed, 52% of the city is actually open space. Some 27% of Oxford is in the green belt.

Highest points

White Horse Hill (Oxfordshire high point): boasts Uffington Castle and views across six counties. Not forgetting the White Horse itself.

Shotover Hill (Oxford city high point): situated to the east of the city and now a country park.

St Martin’s Tower (Central Oxford high point): also known as Carfax Tower and standing at 23 metres, the top of the tower is generally considered to be the highest point in the city centre. Located on Queen Street. The city council stipulates that no building may be built higher in the city centre – a rule broken by the Blavatnik School of Government. But tourists don’t give a fig about Blavatnik because it was completed in 2015, and Carfax/St Martin’s dates from the 12th century. Proper history, not a building full of policy wonks. So Carfax it is.

Lowest point

The lowest point in Oxford is the water level of the River Thames (Isis) as it flows through the western part of the city, particularly around Port Meadow. While the city is roughly 70 metres above sea level, the floodplains of the Thames/Cherwell valley are the lowest elevation areas.

Steepest street

Headington Hill (part of the A420), which runs from the city centre up to Headington, is “notoriously steep” and is known as the steepest road in Oxford. Tough to cycle up and terrifying to cycle down, should you be tempted.

So, Oxford has its highs and lows, its ups and downs. And it’s all the more beautiful for them.

Sources: Wikipedia, National Trust, Oxford City Council

Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…

Oxford roads chief apologises for congestion charge data errors

BBC News · April 30, 2026

Oxfordshire County Council's transport chief, Cllr Andrew Gant, has apologised for using incorrect data regarding the city's temporary congestion charge, which has drawn criticism from local business owners. He acknowledged shortcomings in data collection and delays in a promised survey to evaluate the charge's impact on small businesses.

Oxfordshire: one week to go before the local elections

BBC · April 29, 2026

Local elections in Oxford and some surrounding districts are approaching, offering voters the chance to shape local governance by electing representatives who will oversee essential services like waste management and education. With key issues such as housing and public transport at the forefront, it's vital to consider candidates' platforms before casting your vote – and every vote truly counts!

Schwarzman Centre opening concerts – ‘a magnificent new monument to secular culture’

The Guardian · April 27, 2026

The Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities at Oxford, featuring the world's first Passivhaus concert hall, has opened with a grand ceremony that included a choral installation by Es Devlin and Nico Muhly. However, despite its impressive design and cultural significance, the event revealed a ‘spiritual emptiness’ that modern experiences struggle to address.

US-UK relationship ‘become increasingly threadbare’ says Oxford historian

Channel 4 News · April 28, 2026

In a discussion with historian and Oxford emeritus professor Margaret MacMillan, she reflected on the evolving "special relationship" between the UK and the US, acknowledging its complexities amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. Despite these changes, she emphasised that shared historical ties and values remain crucial to their interactions in defence, trade and culture.

Why some trains will not be stopping at Banbury

BBC News · April 29, 2026

MP Sean Woodcock has called on CrossCountry to rethink its new timetable, which will introduce direct trains between Oxford and Leamington Spa while bypassing Banbury, raising concerns about worsening overcrowding for commuters. CrossCountry reassured that service frequency from Banbury would remain unchanged despite the new routes.

BMW celebrates 25 years of MINI production in Oxford

BBC News · April 26, 2026

MINI Plant Oxford, a cornerstone of British automotive history for over a century, has produced 4.67 million MINIs since BMW's takeover in 1998, showcasing a blend of craftsmanship and innovation. With the modern MINI line-up now featuring diverse models such as the Roadster and Convertible, the plant continues to thrive as a symbol of iconic British engineering.

Oxford professor breaks world record at marathon

Yahoo News · April 27, 2026

Professor Alexander Betts from Oxford University has set a new Guinness World Record by completing the London Marathon in full academic attire, finishing in an impressive two hours and 55 minutes. His remarkable run not only surpassed the previous record but also helped raise over £2,200 for Helen and Douglas House, a charity supporting local terminally ill children and their families.

Struggling pubs in Oxfordshire fear 'carnage' for the industry

BBC · April 27, 2026

Oxfordshire pubs are facing a crisis as rising costs and tax hikes threaten their viability, prompting operators like Andrew Joyce of the Cotswold Merrymouth Inn to diversify after losing 80% of staff and closing their food business. Despite government measures providing some relief, many establishments remain in jeopardy without further support, raising concerns about the industry's future.

Watch: Making incredible patterns on Oxford’s Radcliffe Camera lawns

BBC News · April 28, 2026

James Debanks, Team Leader for Oxford University Parks, has transformed the lawns of the Radcliffe Camera with intricate patterns, taking about three hours to complete the stunning designs. His artistry has garnered positive feedback, celebrating both the beautiful patterns and vibrant colours of the grounds.

Romanian pair deny murdering Banbury company director

Oxford Mail · April 27, 2026

Madalin Dumitru and Adina Mihai, both 30, pleaded not guilty to serious charges including murder and administering poison in connection with the deaths of Gary Mouat, 37, and Malcolm King, 80, at Oxford Crown Court. The case, which began following Mouat's unexplained death last year, involves allegations of conspiracy to steal from the deceased and three survivors.

Water supply restored after newts delay the fixing of burst Sutton Courtenay pipe

BBC News · April 28, 2026

Water supplies in the OX14 postcode area have been temporarily restored following a burst main pipe in Sutton Courtenay, which caused disruptions including the closure of St Blaise C of E Primary School. Thames Water has completed a temporary repair but will conduct further work on Wednesday to install a specialist valve for a permanent solution, after delays due to newts found at the site.

TV star reveals what Jeremy Clarkson is really like

Witney Gazette · April 29, 2026

Harriet Cowan, who briefly replaced fan favourite Kaleb Cooper on Clarkson's Farm, became a hit with viewers and described Jeremy Clarkson as a father figure during her stint. While she expressed openness to returning, there are currently no plans for her comeback as the show gears up for its fifth season.

E-scooter parking in Oxford set for major investment

BBC · April 28, 2026

Voi is set to invest at least £3.5 million in Oxford to improve e-scooter and e-bike parking, aiming to enhance street safety and cleanliness in collaboration with local councils. This initiative follows a previous £1.65 million commitment and includes measures like deploying street patrollers and enforcing stricter parking controls.

'A remarkable time capsule' – but is Oxford University's 750-year-old medieval library the world’s oldest?

BBC · April 24, 2026

Merton College Library in Oxford, celebrating its 750th anniversary, is one of England's oldest libraries and has been a hub of scholarly activity since 1276. While often claimed to be the world's oldest library, its status is contested, highlighting the evolving definition of what constitutes a library as it embraces both historical significance and modern digital technology.

_{What’s on in and around Oxford?}

Oxford prepares for return of centuries-old cherished tradition

Yahoo News · April 27, 2026

Join the centuries-old May Morning celebration in Oxford on Friday, May 1, starting at 6am on Magdalen Bridge, featuring a choral performance, bell ringing and festive activities like Morris dancing and folk singing. With thousands expected, attendees are encouraged to follow safety guidelines amid road closures from 2am to 9am.

Sport

Oxford Outlook: The U’s

They think it’s all over… it is now! Oxford United limped into League One, despite dismantling Sheffield Wednesday 4-1 at the Kassam last Saturday. But, to be clear, the second XI at the Dog & Duck could win against woeful Wednesday.

The U’s have amassed a pauperish 47 points from 45 games in the Championship this season. One match to go, against Millwall away (Saturday 2 May, 12.30pm). The words “no” and “chance” spring to mind. The South London Lions are roaring for an automatic promotion place or at least a favourable playoff tie. Expect a mauling, Oxford.

Demotion to the third tier of English football is pretty disastrous for The U’s. The proposed switch from the Kassam to a new stadium complex (complete with out-of-town hotel – think Alan Partridge) now looks fraught with risk. League One is difficult to escape and the costs of a new stadium are inescapable.

It couldn’t be much worse. Oxford occupy the third and final relegation spot. Both Leicester City and Wednesday below them suffered points deductions for breaches of FA rules. As did West Brom, who avoided the drop. Without those deductions, The U’s position would be even bleaker.

The harsh truth is this: the men in yellow deserved to go down because they just weren’t good enough. Football is about scoring more goals than the opposition. Not dreaming about retail and leisure opportunities.

Still, there’s always the buffet breakfast at the new hotel to look forward to – if and when it gets built.

The Sports Desk

Grant Ferguson: Oxford chairman says club will 'regroup quickly' following relegation

BBC Sport · April 26, 2026

Oxford United chairman Grant Ferguson has expressed gratitude to fans following the club's relegation from the Championship, emphasising a commitment to learning from this setback and striving for League One promotion next season. He reassured supporters that the club's identity remains strong and highlighted ongoing improvements to prepare for the future.

Property news

Major property firm launches new residential agency in Oxford

Yahoo News · April 26, 2026

Bidwells has launched a new residential property agency in Oxford, integrating sales, lettings and new homes to meet the high demand for housing in the area, where rents have surged by 33% and house prices by 6% over the past five years. Backed by its expert team and insights from the land and development sector, this venture aims to address the growing need for an estimated 40,000 additional homes by 2040 in one of the UK's most dynamic property markets.

Five-bedroom unbuilt house on the market for £9m

Bicester Advertiser · April 29, 2026

A cutting-edge house in Aynhoe Park will feature multiple levels, including a spacious ground floor with various living areas, a luxurious first floor with several bedrooms and ensuites, and plans for a second floor with a roof deck and bar. The property promises privacy and stunning southern views of a private lawn and outdoor terrace.

Oxford Airport raises safety concerns over Heyford Park plans

BBC News · April 29, 2026

London Oxford Airport has raised safety concerns regarding plans for three wind turbines at a housing development near the former RAF Upper Heyford site, arguing they could disrupt aviation operations. Developer Dorchester Living is assessing these issues as part of a broader proposal that includes new schools and community facilities for 9,000 planned homes.

Ellen DeGeneres may make farm near Burford ‘long-term’ home after it is taken off the market

Oxford Mail · April 28, 2026

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia De Rossi's Kitesbridge Farm, purchased for £15 million with an additional £7.5 million in renovations, has been taken off the market after struggling to sell due to flooding issues, as they seek a more suitable property for Portia's equestrian interests. Despite reducing the asking price to £22 million, recent planning documents suggest they may now consider making the estate their long-term home.