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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 71
Oxford News By Hana Edition 71
Dirty thoughts
Mark Skipworth
September 03, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 71
Oxford Outlook: Dirty thoughts
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Six million quid. That’s the bill we taxpayers have been landed with to clear up one of Britain’s largest illegal waste tips. I’m referring, of course, to the monstrous heap of rubbish dumped near Oxford by criminal gangs.
In 2025, you may recall – how could anyone forget? – 22,000 tonnes of domestic and commercial waste was discarded at a site between the River Cherwell and the A34. Resembling a “river of rubbish”, the 150m-long trail of tyres, shredded plastic and household items fly-tipped across a field made national and international headlines when it was later discovered.
Now we learn that the last of this festering pile has finally been removed and the site thoroughly cleaned. Good news, at last, but the lessons to be drawn from this lamentable episode are all too obvious.
Under the Proceeds of Crime Act, the Environment Agency (EA) was supposed to make criminals pay for clean-up operations by confiscating their money and assets. Yet according to the BBC, revealed in this week’s newsletter, the government body has so far managed to claw back a comparatively paltry £7m in the past five years from criminals dumping illegal waste at numerous large sites across the country.
The agency, meanwhile, has admitted waste crime is costing the economy a staggering £1 billion a year.
No wonder campaigners have criticised the amount taken from criminals as derisory and of little value as a deterrent. In short, enforcement is patently lacking, despite evidence to show Britain is facing a national crisis in this organised criminal activity.
You have to ask whether the EA, even with new, stronger powers to tackle waste crime, is up to the task of making large-scale illegal dumping a “losing business” by seizing the vehicles of criminal gangs and recovering the money they owe.
Surely it’s time for the National Crime Agency, working with EA officers and local police forces, to take the lead if these shameless fly-tippers are ever to be beaten and brought to justice?
Worth noting: four men have been arrested in connection with the illegal waste tip near Oxford. All have since been released “while the investigation continues”. Say no more.
* Blue Cross near Burford reports the unhappy news of a marked increase in the number of horses being given up as their owners struggle with the rising cost of caring for them. The animal welfare charity says the situation has been made worse this year by the dry weather, leading to hay shortages and higher food prices. The site is currently taking in 20 to 30 horses a month. Goodness.
The charity has a simple message for those owners whose financial difficulties may be affecting the welfare of their animals: “Please come to us. We are here to help and we will not judge.”
Laudable words. Let’s keep our horses safe, healthy and loved for better days ahead.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
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Databox
This week we look at the percentage of people living in British cities who are full-time students. The best “apples-to-apples” official comparison comes courtesy of the 2021 Census for England and Wales which measured full-time students among the resident population.
The big student cities (approximate student share):
Oxford – 26/27%
Loughborough - 25%+
Cambridge - 25%
Nottingham - 23%
Bath - 21%
Newcastle -21%
Exeter - 20%+
Durham - 20%+
Lancaster - 20-25%
York - 15-20%
Norwich - 15-20%
Leicester - 15-20%
Coventry - 15-20%
Sheffield - 15-20%
Bristol - 15%
With more than 36,000 full-time students, it’s no surprise perhaps that Oxford feels student-dominated. But the City of Dreaming Spires falls way behind many of our small university towns. St Andrews, for example, has roughly 60% of its overall population made up of full-time students. That’s an awful lot of experts at finding the cheapest drinks in town.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Three-year ban on fires and BBQs in Oxford parks approved BBC News - September 3, 2026 Oxford City Council has enacted a three-year ban on fires, barbecues and fireworks in 41 parks to prevent wildfire risks following the UK's record hot summer. This Public Space Protection Order aims to enhance safety in high-traffic areas like Port Meadow and South Park, with violators facing potential fines. |
Clean-up of illegal Kidlington waste ‘supersite’ costs £6m BBC News - August 27, 2026 The illegal waste clearance near Kidlington, Oxfordshire, has cost taxpayers £6 million, prompting the government to intensify its efforts against waste crime, including clearing additional sites across England and enhancing enforcement measures. Despite allocating £20 million for this initiative, concerns persist regarding the effectiveness of current penalties, as only £7.3 million has been recovered from criminals over the past five years. |
Osney Bridge reopening date is set – five years after boat crash closure BBC News - September 2, 2026 The reopening of Osney Bridge in Oxford has been postponed to 20 September due to structural complications following damage from a boat incident in April 2021, which also affected the nearby Botley Road. While a temporary water supply has been established, ongoing issues with the bridge's footpath continue to delay permanent repairs, necessitating current lane and pavement closures on the north side. |
Will Oxford's Botley Road reopen to traffic this month? BBC News - September 2, 2026 Botley Road in Oxford has been closed for Network Rail's station upgrades since April 2023, with the reopening now delayed to September 20 due to complications such as gas leaks, resulting in a cost escalation from £161 million to £237.4 million. This prolonged disruption has adversely affected local businesses, leading to permanent closures and relocations, despite efforts to support them. |
Thames Valley Police leaders happy over PC Harper killers' jail terms BBC - September 1, 2026 Police leaders have welcomed the government's decision to prevent the early release of PC Andrew Harper's killers, Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole, following a petition that gathered over one million signatures. Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced that those convicted of unlawful killing will be excluded from early release schemes, underscoring the ongoing risks faced by law enforcement personnel. |
Oxford home care provider rated outstanding by CQC Yahoo News UK - September 1, 2026 Home Instead Oxford has achieved an "outstanding" rating from the Care Quality Commission, ranking among the top three percent of home care providers in the UK, thanks to its commitment to kindness, individuality and strong client relationships. The organisation's holistic approach not only enhances clients' daily lives but also supports their overall health and community engagement. |
Traffic filter trial with fines of up to £70 to start this month Oxford Mail - September 2, 2026 Oxfordshire County Council will launch a traffic filter trial on September 28, transitioning from its temporary congestion charge to improve traffic flow in Oxford. The scheme includes automatic permit transfers, free day passes for residents and stringent monitoring through ANPR cameras to enforce compliance. |
Author set to debut novel at Oxford's first romantasy bookshop Oxford Mail - September 1, 2026 Amy de la Force, a former executive creative director, transitioned from a successful career in digital marketing to pursue her passion for writing following personal challenges. Her dedication has led to a three-book deal for her Fated for Hael trilogy, with the second novel, A Crown of Blood and Magick, set to be released on September 17, 2026, by Bad Girl Books in Oxford. |
Oxford University Press staff strike over offshoring plans BBC News - September 1, 2026 Oxford University Press (OUP) staff have commenced a strike against plans to outsource financial operations to EXL Services in India, with over 30 members of Unite the Union participating. The protest follows OUP's earlier announcement of significant job cuts, despite the company reporting a profit of £47.1 million. |
Oxfordshire EV charger plans prompt parking fears in Bampton BBC - August 28, 2026 Oxfordshire County Council is set to enhance electric vehicle infrastructure by installing new charging points in Bampton, Burford, Eynsham and Shrivenham to support the transition to EVs. However, local residents in Bampton have raised concerns over parking availability, with suggestions for a more equitable distribution of charging stations. |
Clarkson's Farm star set to leave Jeremy Clarkson's show Oxford Mail - September 2, 2026 Kaleb Cooper, star of Clarkson's Farm, will explore the Australian agricultural landscape in his new four-part series, Kaleb: Down Under, premiering on Prime Video early next year. The series not only highlights his professional ventures but also provides insights into balancing family dynamics and career aspirations alongside his wife, Taya, as they navigate parenting and personal growth. |
First 'quiet lane' set for approval in Oxfordshire BBC - August 31, 2026 Oxfordshire County Council is set to implement its "quiet lanes" initiative, which aims to enhance rural roads for cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders through measures such as reduced speed limits and partial road closures. While the plan enjoys public support, concerns have been raised by Thames Valley Police regarding enforceability and safety, prompting the council to reiterate its commitment to creating safer, more inclusive transport networks. |
Girl graduates at 14 and sets her sights on Oxford Oxford Mail - September 2, 2026 Vera Cree, a remarkable prodigy who completed her Bachelor of Science in Information Systems at just 14 years old, has already set her sights on pursuing a PhD at Oxford University, focusing on AI solutions for caregivers of autistic children. With a strong academic record and innovative projects, including a wearable camera that detects emotions, Vera exemplifies the intersection of technology and compassion in addressing societal needs. |
Oxford researchers honoured for breakthroughs in energy and medicine Yahoo News UK - August 31, 2026 Four esteemed academics from the University of Oxford have been honoured in the Royal Society awards for 2025-26, with Professor Laura Herz receiving the Rumford Medal, Professor Iain McCulloch the Hughes Medal, and Professor Ketan Patel the Buchanan Medal, all recognised for their groundbreaking contributions to science. Additionally, Professor Charlotte Williams was awarded the Armourers & Brasiers' Company Prize, highlighting the significant role of her dedicated team in advancing research in chemistry. |
Oxfordshire charity concerned more horses being given up over costs BBC News - September 2, 2026 The rising costs of horse care, exacerbated by hay shortages and increased food prices, have led to a 160% surge in horse relinquishments across the UK, with the Blue Cross charity in Burford now admitting 20 to 30 horses monthly. Freya Long, the admissions coordinator, anticipates further requests for assistance due to the ongoing cost of living crisis impacting the financial obligations associated with horse ownership. |
Green leader Zack Polanski visits Oxfordshire wildfire site Oxford Mail - September 1, 2026 In the aftermath of a significant wildfire in Goring Heath, London Assembly Member Zack Polanski has called for urgent government action on climate change, proposing measures such as taxing fossil fuel companies and reinstating public water ownership to enhance environmental protections. This incident underscores the growing tension between economic interests in fossil fuels and the pressing need for comprehensive climate action amidst increasing wildfire risks across the UK. |
Mum took own life after injecting children with insulin - inquest BBC News - September 1, 2026 An inquest at Oxford Coroner's Court has ruled that a 49-year-old woman died by suicide after injecting her children with insulin, claiming it was for jet lag prevention amid ongoing custody disputes. The tragic case underscores the critical importance of community vigilance and mental health support, as the woman had a history of anxiety and depression and had been receiving psychotherapy prior to the incident. |
Aunt Sally title race blown open after leaders lose This is Oxfordshire - September 2, 2026 In a thrilling week in the Aunt Sally League, North Leigh FC surged into second place after a decisive 3-0 win over The White House, while Littlemore British Legion ‘A’ suffered a setback against The Jolly Sportsman. Section 2 saw Six Bells ‘C’ maintain their title pursuit with a commanding 3-0 victory, highlighted by Jack Lane's standout performance, as competitive matches unfolded across all sections with remarkable individual scoring efforts. |
Could Brussels sprouts be off the menu this Christmas? BBC News - September 3, 2026 George Bennet, an organic farmer in Oxfordshire, is grappling with a significant flea beetle infestation affecting his Brussels sprouts, which may result in smaller yields this Christmas. While other crops like potatoes and squash are thriving, the challenges highlight the need for government support and adaptation strategies in agriculture amidst changing climate conditions. |
Oxford midwife delivers life-saving care in earthquake-hit Venezuela Oxford Mail - August 31, 2026 Alessandra Morelli of the UK Emergency Medical Team has deployed to Venezuela, establishing a temporary field hospital to address critical healthcare needs while emphasising the importance of midwifery care in disaster zones. Highlighting the resilience and solidarity of local communities, she underscores the vital role of collaboration in fostering recovery and driving positive change in challenging circumstances. |
Sport
Oxford Outlook: Leather on willow
At the start of the Home Counties Premier Cricket League season, this column predicted that rain would play its part. Soggy wickets and soggy sarnies.
Then came the heatwave(s). Scorched earth. But this is England, after all, and so the heavens eventually opened as August drew to a close.
Division One
Oxford Downs CC v Banbury CC
The big derby last Saturday was a big, damp squib. A washout. Match abandoned. Seven points each.
The match between Finchampstead and High Wycombe was also cancelled. Another seven points each.
The weather means the table hasn’t changed in terms of the top positions. But there’s now only one round of matches to go. Good news for High Wycombe; bad news for Banbury – they are out of the running for top spot. Oxford Downs still have a chance of seizing the crown, but it’s a slim one.
Top four
1 High Wycombe CC (316 points)
2 Oxford Downs CC (296 points)
3 Finchampstead CC (284 points)
4 Banbury CC (280 points)
Division Two
Ickenham CC v Oxford CC
Another washout. Oxford didn’t face or bowl a ball all day. League leaders Datchet suffered a similar fate against Gerrards Cross. Match abandoned.
Top four
1 Datchet CC (295 points)
2 Oxford CC (288 points)
3 Wargrave CC (281 points)
4 Gerrards Cross (274 points)
Oxford Outlook: The U’s
League One
Huddersfield Town 3 v 1 Oxford United (Tuesday 1 September)
Too early for tables. But United got royally humped by Huddersfield. The U’s really do need to go straight back up to the Championship to justify their new stadium (including an hotel – the Alan Partridge suite is available upon request. Once they’ve built the hotel, that is. And installed seating for actual football fans).
Next up? Leicester City v Oxford United (Saturday 5 September, 3pm).
Luka Lynch signs for Oxford United on loan Oufc - Oxford United has secured a loan deal for 19-year-old winger Luka Lynch from Aston Villa until January 2, enhancing their squad with his promising talent and first-team experience. Head Coach Aaron Ramsey and Ed Waldron, Head of Football Operations, express confidence in Lynch's ability to make a significant impact with his direct playing style and offensive contributions. |
Oxford speedway champions take on unbeaten Edinburgh This is Oxfordshire - September 2, 2026 The Oxford Chargers are set to challenge the unbeaten Edinburgh Monarchs on September 4, buoyed by the return of key rider Senna Summers and a recent victory over Leicester. With fifteen-year-old Casper Kluczniak making his National League debut, team manager Peter Schroeck remains optimistic about an upset against the reigning champions. |
Property news
The planning loophole that could save Oxford’s bizarre Shark House
The Shark House in Headington, Oxford, is under planning scrutiny as owner Dr. Magnus Hanson-Heine seeks to overturn a council ban on short-term rentals, arguing the property is significant public art rather than just a rental. Despite its history on Airbnb, the house is now listed for long-term rental at £4,000 per month following the council's concerns about housing availability.
New railway hubs planned for Oxfordshire village of Ardley BBC - September 2, 2026 The proposed Oxfordshire Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (OxSRFI) aims to enhance logistical efficiency and reduce congestion by facilitating goods transfer from lorries to trains, alongside plans for two new stations, including one at Ardley. While the initiative promises improved connectivity and environmental benefits, local residents have raised concerns about potential traffic increases, prompting a thorough review by the Planning Inspectorate and a collaborative exploration of the Ardley station's construction. |
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What’s on in and around Oxford?
Police issue advice ahead of free Oxfordshire music festival Oxford Mail - September 1, 2026 Bunkfest returns to Wallingford from September 4 to 6, with Thames Valley Police urging attendees to prioritise safety through vigilant practices such as safeguarding personal belongings and planning travel home. Festival-goers are encouraged to engage with patrolling officers and make full use of resources like free waterproof wristbands for children, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience while supporting local initiatives. |
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