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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 64
Oxford News By Hana Edition 64
Culture clubbed
Mark Skipworth
July 16, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 64
Oxford Outlook: Culture clubbed
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2026 is proving to be a tough old year for the Museum of Oxford (MOX), the city’s history museum established over half a century ago “to tell the story of Oxford and its communities”.
Footfall is down a “catastrophic” 70-80% compared with 2024/25 since it began charging an entry fee, according to the campaign group Save Our Museum.
Nothing short of terminal, you might think, for a museum that has struggled throughout this century to fund its running costs.
The museum, located in the historic Oxford Town Hall in St Aldate's, had been free to enter since the 1980s until it introduced a charge of £4 in January.
Oxford City Council, which manages the museum, seems unmoved by the drastic decline in visitor numbers. It claims it’s too early to judge the new scheme and insists it will consider a new business plan for MOX in the autumn.
Still, it’s hard to ignore campaigners who say action needs to be taken right now to rectify the “mistake” of introducing charging before it is too late.
Meanwhile, Oxford’s music scene in the 1990s – which gave birth to bands such as Radiohead and Supergrass – is being celebrated in a new exhibition at MOX (see ‘What’s on in and around Oxford?’ below).
‘Sounds of the City’ showcases musical instruments, memorabilia and recordings of some of the scene’s key players. A programme of events will run alongside it, including live music performances, walking tours and film screenings.
All very exciting – and a much-needed reminder of what we will lose as a community if MOX is allowed to fold.
Spare a thought for the volunteers who help to pioneer the world’s medical breakthroughs. The University of Oxford has launched the first human trial of a new Ebola vaccine to combat the fast-spreading Bundibugyo strain currently devastating the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The early-stage trial will evaluate the safety and immune response of the vaccine in 50 healthy adults aged 18 to 55 in Oxford, the university has said. Thanks to these unsung heroes – and our brilliant Oxford scientists leading the trial – the jab could soon be ready for emergency use to protect the vulnerable and save lives in the DRC. Humbling.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
Newcastle upon Tyne is the 18th most similar area to Oxford, according to data provided by the wizards at the Office for National Statistics.
Should this be interesting? Perhaps not. Until context is applied. Newcastle is more similar to Oxford than Cambridge. This country has always been quirky.
Population (2024)
Oxford: 166,034. Newcastle: 320,605.
Unsurprisingly, Newcastle is double the size of Oxford in terms of people. It was once an industrial heartland in the northeast of England. Coal and making stuff saw the city soar. Things have changed, but a very good university and a vibrant nightlife means the city remains popular.
Five year population change (2024)
Oxford: 3.3%. Newcastle: 7.9%.
Shock stat. Oxford is plodding along nicely in terms of population growth. But Newcastle is sprinting ahead. Let’s put it down to the city’s famed brown ale.
Median age (2024)
Oxford: 31 years. Newcastle: 33 years.
Nothing in it, really. Both relatively youthful places.
Employment rate (2023)
Oxford: 80.8%. Newcastle: 74.3%.
Jobs in Newcastle have been a problem since the 1980s. But, after 40 years, the picture should be brighter.
Average house price (April 2026)
Oxford: £475,481. Newcastle: £209,071.
No surprise. Property in the south is much more expensive than bricks and mortar in the north. Oxford is a desirable place in which to live. But 209k to live in Newcastle looks like an absolute bargain.
GCSEs in English and Maths (2024-2025)
Oxford: 69.3%. Newcastle: 67.0%.
Oxford nudges this one, but not by much. Newcastle has been bedevilled by deprivation for decades – a key negative factor in educational achievement. Oxford has not, in relative terms. It’s a shaming stat for this city.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Oxford museum sees 'catastrophic' drop in visitors after entry fee This is Oxfordshire - July 10, 2026 The Museum of Oxford has seen a dramatic 70-80% drop in visitor numbers since introducing a £4 entry fee, prompting concerns from the Save Our Museum campaign about declining attendance and donations. The council is monitoring the situation while promoting the value of free access to resources, emphasising that "knowledge is priceless" and advocating for an informed community without financial barriers. |
Oxford begins first human trial of Bundibugyo Ebola vaccine
Reuters -
The University of Oxford has launched the first human trial for a vaccine targeting Bundibugyo Ebola virus, aiming to enhance public health preparedness against Ebola outbreaks spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and beyond. This groundbreaking study will assess the vaccine's safety and immune response in healthy volunteers aged 18 to 55 in Oxford, marking a vital step in combating viral haemorrhagic fevers.
Protests held over asylum housing plan for Bicester MoD base BBC News - July 12, 2026 Protesters in Bicester opposed the Home Office's plan to house 1,250 single male asylum seekers at a former military base, with concerns ranging from safety to the need for better asylum processing. While some voiced fears for their communities, others condemned the treatment of asylum seekers as "inhumane warehousing", warning against potential right-wing agitation. |
King Charles praises landmark Oxford University building for community use Yahoo News UK - July 10, 2026 King Charles III officially opened the new £185 million Schwarzman Centre at the University of Oxford on July 10, highlighting its role as a hub for the Humanities and its potential to benefit both the university and the community. The centre features state-of-the-art facilities, including the Sohmen Concert Hall and versatile spaces for public engagement, emphasising the importance of humanities in shaping our identity and future. |
Warning for judge and Oxford college principal after driving ban BBC News - July 10, 2026 John Bowers KC, a deputy High Court judge and principal of Brasenose College, Oxford, received a formal warning after being banned from driving for six months due to accumulating 12 points from multiple traffic offences, including speeding and running a red light. Acknowledging his mistakes, he expressed regret for not exercising greater caution in his role as a judge. |
Oxfordshire placed in ‘very high’ fire severity zone, officials warn Oxford Mail - July 13, 2026 Oxfordshire is facing a 'very high' fire severity risk, with some areas nearing 'exceptional' levels following recent incidents at a caravan park and a pub. The Fire and Rescue Service advises against barbecues in the countryside, stresses the importance of properly extinguishing cigarettes and encourages residents to take litter home to help prevent fires. |
Thames Water issues new update on hosepipe ban after surge in demand Witney Gazette - July 14, 2026 Thames Water has reported a 30% increase in household water use due to record-breaking heat, although no hosepipe ban is currently in place. In contrast, Anglian Water has implemented a hosepipe ban in parts of Norfolk and Suffolk as demand surges during the heatwave. |
Oxford Health shares ‘10 top tips’ for staying well in hot weather Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust - July 10, 2026 During the heatwave, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust advises vulnerable individuals to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat and check on those who may need support. They emphasise recognising heat-related illness symptoms and seeking help when necessary, with additional resources available on GOV.UK and NHS 111. |
Parking U-turn after Oxford University developer complaints This is Oxfordshire - July 14, 2026 Oxfordshire County Council has withdrawn its controversial updated parking standards for new developments after a backlash from developers, including Oxford University, over concerns that the proposed 'Car Light' policy could hinder housing projects and deter investment. The council plans to conduct a full consultation to adapt previous rules, as stakeholders call for a balanced approach to parking that supports both sustainable travel and necessary housing growth in the region. |
Rise in Thames swan numbers despite bird flu outbreak BBC News - July 13, 2026 Swan Uppers on the River Thames are hopeful for an increase in cygnet numbers this year, despite a recent bird flu outbreak, with a five-day census starting on Monday and covering 79 miles from Sunbury Lock to Abingdon Bridge. The tradition of Swan Upping, which dates back to the 12th century, continues to play a crucial role in monitoring and conserving the mute swan population along the River Thames. |
Jeremy Clarkson hits back at BBC legend after ‘Clarkson's Farm’ rant Oxford Mail - July 15, 2026 Jeremy Clarkson, star of "Clarkson's Farm," is under fire from naturalist Chris Packham, who accuses him of romanticising farming in his show, which he claims misrepresents the industry's reliance on monocultures and chemicals. In response, Clarkson defended his farm, Diddly Squat, in a column, suggesting that Packham's criticisms are exaggerated. |
Extra £14.5m found to fund Cowley Branch Line project BBC - July 15, 2026 The £155m project to reopen the Cowley Branch Line and construct new stations at Cowley and Littlemore has received approval, with Oxfordshire County Council stepping in to cover a £14.5m funding shortfall using local business rates, despite criticism from some councillors. With significant backing from Network Rail and local businesses, the project aims to enhance regional connectivity while sparking debate over community resource allocation. |
Oxfordshire racing car driver suing BBC over Top Gear crash Oxford Mail - July 13, 2026 Driving expert Paul Rees is suing BBC Studios for personal injury after a crash at Top Gear's test track involving presenter Andrew Flintoff who suffered serious injuries. Rees claims he was harmed due to faulty vehicle instructions despite not reporting injuries immediately. Flintoff, the former Top Gear host, has previously revealed his near-fatal incident, which led to a six-month recovery and a compensation settlement with the BBC. The network, meanwhile, is considering reviving the show after its hiatus. |
Speed cameras installed at Barton Park crossing on the A40 BBC News - July 14, 2026 Oxfordshire County Council is installing speed cameras at the Barton Park pelican crossing in Headington to enhance safety and deter dangerous driving behaviours, following several concerning incidents. The initiative, supported by residents, aims to protect pedestrians and will be funded through the council's Vision Zero scheme, with Thames Valley Police overseeing operations. |
Man arrested at Tommy Robinson protest to avoid court This is Oxfordshire - July 14, 2026 A 20-year-old man arrested during protests at the Oxford Union on June 17 for assault by beating will not face further police action, as the case was resolved through a community resolution order. This informal approach highlights Restorative Justice, allowing the offender to make amends without going to court. |
70-year-old Oxford fishkeeping shop closing later this month will hold goodbye party This is Oxfordshire - July 14, 2026 After 70 years of serving the East Oxford community, The Goldfish Bowl will close its doors for good on July 31, hosting a farewell party from 4 PM to 8 PM with activities and refreshments to celebrate its legacy. Owner Barry Allday expresses heartfelt gratitude to patrons and staff, highlighting the shop's significant role in the local fishkeeping community. |
Sport
Oxford Outlook: Leather on willow
Things are getting spicy in the Home Counties Premier Cricket League. Like an agitated man having consumed a vindaloo and one too many Kingfisher beers, the table is bouncing all over the place.
Here’s how the best teams from Oxfordshire fared in Division One last weekend.
Oxfordshire Downs CC
The Downs defeated Great Brickhill by four wickets after a reduced overs match. A great win which saw them pop to the top, thanks to other results.
Result: Oxford Downs 197/6. Great Brickhill 196/9. Downs won by four wickets.
Banbury CC
Banbury secured a creditable draw away against a strong High Wycombe side. The timed overs rule in this part of the season remains confusing. Long may it not reign over us.
Result: High Wycombe 208 all out (62.1 overs). Banbury 140/9 (57 overs). Match drawn.
Top of Division One
1 Oxford Downs CC (179 points)
2 Finchampstead CC (175 points)
3 High Wycombe CC (170 points)
4 Banbury CC (167 points)
5 Harefield CC (150 points)
Oxford Downs sit at the summit but it’s achingly close at the top. Banbury slip to fourth but remain in the hunt.
This Saturday sees Oxford Downs visit Wokingham, while Banbury host Slough. Two wins and plenty of chicken tikka pies, please.
The Sports Desk
Oxford United transfer embargo: Chairman apologises to fans in open letter BBC Sport - July 15, 2026 Oxford United chairman Dusan Bogdanovic has issued an apology to fans following a temporary transfer embargo imposed by the EFL due to salary management non-compliance. He reassured supporters of the board's commitment to the club amid financial challenges and highlighted the positive appointment of new head coach Aaron Ramsey. |
Oxfordshire golfer to represent England at disabled championship BBC News - July 16, 2026 Oxfordshire golfer Andrew Gardiner is thrilled to be selected for the disabled European championships in Italy where he will join a mixed-gender team competing in the prestigious event. A former champion and professional player, Gardiner expressed his excitement at this "massive honour", especially as he approaches 50 years old. |
Property news
IT upgrade blamed for 'dreadful' land search delays at two Oxfordshire councils BBC News - July 13, 2026 Property sales in South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse are facing delays of up to three months due to IT upgrades at the councils, frustrating buyers and sellers alike. While the councils have apologised and are working to resolve the backlog, the impact on the real estate process remains significant, affecting everyone from removal companies to solicitors. |
David Beckham loses Cotswolds planning battle Witney Gazette - July 14, 2026 Sir David and Lady Victoria Beckham have faced yet another setback in their ongoing planning saga, as West Oxfordshire District Council has rejected their 44th application for a new balcony at their home, citing concerns that it would disrupt the agricultural character of the converted farmstead. The council emphasised that the proposed balcony, intended for private use, does not outweigh the potential harm to the heritage of the listed building. |
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Museum exhibition celebrates Oxford's brilliant music scene BBC News - July 11, 2026 The Museum of Oxford's new exhibition "Sounds of the City" celebrates the vibrant 90s music scene in Oxford, featuring iconic memorabilia from bands such as Supergrass and Radiohead, including Mick Quinn's bass guitar and a guitar from a Radiohead video. Commemorating the 30th anniversary of Sound City Oxford, the showcase also features personal stories and audio interviews that highlight the local connection to this influential musical era. |
'It's the best thing I've done in years' Children's author Sharna Jackson on new Mystery Academy Ox In A Box - July 13, 2026 Children's author Sharna Jackson, known for her High-Rise Mystery series, has launched the interactive Mystery Academy in collaboration with The Story Museum in Oxford, inviting young detectives to solve the mystery of a missing headteacher. With a focus on representation and community, Jackson continues to make waves in children's literature while inspiring future generations through engaging storytelling and creative initiatives. |
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