- Oxford News By HANA
- Posts
- Oxford News By Hana Edition 72
Oxford News By Hana Edition 72
The waiting game?
Mark Skipworth
September 10, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 72
Oxford Outlook: The waiting game?
Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here for instant sign-up.
Let’s rewind a moment: it was back in February 2025, you may recall, that Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership invited proposals from councils for local government reorganisation (LGR).
To the approval of many in Oxfordshire – myself included – LGR held out the prospect of a fresh start to restore faith in local democracy. There was, in truth, even an element of revenge to see the replacement of councils in our area that were deemed anti-car, anti-business or just plain useless.
So the latest announcement by the government of Andy Burnham to delay planned changes to the way Oxfordshire and West Berkshire will be governed has proved an unwelcome surprise. We have been thrust collectively into a dismal state of limbo.
No matter that the LGR process has already cost our county, district and city councils millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money as well as wasting hundreds of hours of council officers’ time in preparation for the changes.
As one Oxfordshire council leader bitterly observed: “Every pound and every officer hour spent responding to a process that is subsequently paused, is a resource that could have been spent on housing, social care, roads, planning and other frontline services.”
Previously it had been announced that our area would be split into three new “unitary” authorities, replacing a “two-tier” system in which the county council looked after social care, education and potholes, the district and city councils being responsible for bin collections, leisure centres and local planning.
West Oxfordshire was joining up with Cherwell District Council to form a "Northern Oxfordshire Council”, while Oxford City Council was to become the “Greater Oxford Authority” to manage the city and its immediate Green Belt surroundings.
West Berkshire was already a small unitary authority, but backed plans to join South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse District Councils under one large “Ridgeway Council”. All very sensible, you might think.
Except these plans are now on hold, with the disruption and uncertainty that this is bound to cause.
The government of Andy Burnham announced the delay earlier this week “in light of legal advice” until the planned changes are reviewed.
Why this hold-up so late in the process? You’d be forgiven for thinking our Westminster masters have paused LGR for no other reason than “because they can”.
And thus the wait goes on. What a mess!
St Giles' Fair, one of Oxford’s oldest traditions, returned to the city centre on Monday and Tuesday. A fixture of Oxford life for hundreds of years, Queen Elizabeth I is said to have watched the fair from the windows of St John's College during a visit to the city in 1567.
The fair in St Giles and Magdalen Street is the first of several historic fairs taking place across Oxfordshire during autumn. Next up is the Witney Feast this coming Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at the Leys (see “What’s On In And Around Oxford?” below). Dating back almost 800 years, it is billed as the county’s largest funfair. If big wheels, dodgems and those clouds of pure sugar – who doesn’t like candy floss? – are your thing, it’s a feast not to be missed.
Congratulations to Oxfordshire’s (Richard) Young & (Sam) Strange in reaching next week’s Semi Final of the popular US TV show America’s Got Talent. The comedy illusion duo was deservedly voted through by the American public after their latest spectacular magic act. Best of luck, lads!
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
Make Oxford an even better community - share Oxford by Hana with friends and family for a more informed and better run city - local news and views you can use - forward this link for instant sign up
Databox
This week we focus on the economy or, more specifically, employment. A wise American (yes, despite current evidence to the contrary, they do exist) once said “It’s the economy, stupid”. (Credit: James Carville, political strategist for Bill Clinton.)
Employment lies at the heart of any well-functioning economy. So how do the stats stack up for Oxford? Thanks again to our fiendishly forensic friends at the Office for National Statistics, we can tell you.
Economic inactivity rate (2023)
18.1% (similar to the South East).
Employment rate (2023)
80.8% (slightly better than the rest of the South East).
Claimant count (2025)
2.6% (similar to the South East).
So, a mixed bag for Oxford in terms of the data. But the fact remains that this fair city is doing alright. The stand-out stat is economic inactivity. Living off The Bank of Mum and Dad? Surely not!
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in and around Oxford…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Thames Valley changes to local government delayed BBC News - September 7, 2026 Planned governance changes in Oxfordshire and West Berkshire, which aimed to establish three new unitary authorities, have been postponed for review by the government, prompting criticism from local leaders who highlight the financial waste incurred during the process. This delay has raised concerns regarding the two-tier governance system and underscores the need for clarity and prompt action to address the complexities of local government. |
Oxford station western entrance funding now 'in doubt' Oxford Mail - September 9, 2026 Botley Road, closed since April 2023 for upgrades linked to Oxford rail station, is set to reopen on September 20, despite significant cost overruns escalating from £161 million to approximately £237 million. With the development of a new platform and western entrance planned for early 2027, concerns over funding of the station have prompted local MP actions and community petitions advocating for temporary access solutions. |
Botley Road "disaster" referred to National Audit Office Oxford Mail - September 2, 2026 The closure of Botley Road for upgrades related to the Oxford rail station was extended to September 20 due to a gas leak, with project costs escalating from £161 million to approximately £237 million. Local MP Layla Moran has voiced concerns over mismanagement and budget overruns, prompting her to refer the project to the National Audit Office, as local businesses face significant financial losses amid repeated delays. |
Major solar farm could be built near Oxfordshire villages BBC News - September 5, 2026 Telis Energy UK has proposed the Cearn Solar Farm, a nationally significant project in the Vale of White Horse designed to generate up to 500MW of power for approximately 140,000 homes, featuring a battery energy storage system and connecting to the National Grid via underground cables. Community engagement workshops are planned to discuss the project with local residents. |
'Seek truth' Pope urges Oxford college during private audience BBC - September 6, 2026 In an audience at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV urged a delegation from Oriel College, University of Oxford, to "seek the truth courageously", commending the college for its commitment to Christian identity amidst its scholarly pursuits. The meeting celebrated the 700th anniversary of the college's foundation and highlighted St. John Henry Newman as a model of faith and reason, with the Pope encouraging the promotion of an integral anthropological vision. |
A420 'botched' repairs cause alarm months after completion Oxford Mail - September 4, 2026 The A420 near Buckland, resurfaced in May, is facing significant criticism from local residents and officials due to rapid deterioration, including rutted tarmac and emerging holes, exacerbated by recent extreme heat. Oxfordshire County Council has committed to ongoing inspections and repairs by the contractor at no additional cost to taxpayers, while also implementing additional treatments to address heat-related issues. |
Judge brands suspect 'nuisance' in Oxford MP's bike theft This is Oxfordshire - September 9, 2026 Andrew Hurtault, a 45-year-old with a history of more than 100 offences primarily related to bike theft, faces sentencing after pleading guilty to multiple thefts, including the theft of valuable bikes and e-scooters. The judge has indicated a potential non-custodial sentence if Hurtault demonstrates positive change by refraining from further offences and adhering to sobriety before the next court date on January 18. |
Bicester asylum site consultation hailed a 'win for democracy' BBC News - September 8, 2026 Calum Miller, MP for Bicester and Woodstock, has praised the government's shift towards public consultation regarding plans to house up to 1,256 asylum seekers at a former military base near Bicester after initial concerns about transparency in the approval process. He considers this move a victory for local democracy and calls on ministers to thoroughly evaluate community feedback on the proposal. |
Two more men arrested over giant illegal waste dump near Kidlington BBC News - September 8, 2026 The Environment Agency has made two additional arrests linked to a massive illegal waste dump near Kidlington, Oxfordshire, which was discovered last October and contained approximately 21,000 tonnes of rubbish. The five-month clean-up operation cost an estimated £6 million, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat illegal fly-tipping practices. |
Oxford biologists’ definition of a kiss earns spoof Nobel prize
The annual Ig Nobel Awards celebrate unconventional research, such as studies on no-splash urinals and effective nose-blowing techniques, emphasising the value of humour and creativity in scientific inquiry. By highlighting these quirky topics, the awards encourage professionals to embrace inter-disciplinary approaches and recognise the potential for innovative solutions in seemingly trivial areas.
John Radcliffe neonatal services rated good by CQC This is Oxfordshire - September 9, 2026 The neonatal unit at Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) has received a 'good' rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) across all assessment domains, reflecting significant improvements and a commitment to family-centred care following a recent inspection. While recognising staff proficiency in incident management, the CQC noted areas for enhancement in the high dependency unit's environment and record management systems, prompting OUH to submit a plan for further improvements. |
MP's call for £120m Oxford maternity unit sparks row
BBC News - September 10, 2026
Layla Moran, MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, is advocating for a £120 million maternity unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital to address rising demand and inadequate facilities, while critics call for a new centre in Banbury to better serve a growing population. Amidst ongoing debates on regional needs and hospital collaboration, the Department of Health has announced an additional £41 million investment to enhance maternity and neonatal services across England.
Plans to stop HGV 'short-cut' through Henley-on-Thames BBC News - September 10, 2026 Henley-on-Thames is investigating ways to reduce heavy goods vehicle congestion, with potential measures including weight restrictions on the town's bridge, road system modifications and a congestion charge for HGVs. Oxfordshire County Council will conduct a six-month feasibility study to identify the most effective solutions, aiming to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce air pollution while ensuring HGV compliance with designated strategic routes. |
US Air Force issues statement after bomber spotted over Oxford Oxford Mail - September 9, 2026 On September 6, a Rockwell B-1 Lancer from the U.S. Air Force flew over several neighbourhoods in Oxford, eliciting mixed reactions from residents due to its loud presence and reported landing gear issues, although it landed safely. The U.S. Air Force described the flyover as 'routine', highlighting the regular hosting of military aircraft at nearby RAF Fairford. |
Cotswolds country club in row with neighbours over ‘Ibiza-style’ parties
Estelle Manor in Oxfordshire faces a community backlash over noise disturbances from helicopter activity, late-night events and fireworks, prompting local residents to express concerns about their quality of life. To mitigate reputational risks and uphold community relations, the venue is seeking to proactively address these issues and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Thames Valley police boss funds phone-free measures at 30 schools BBC - September 6, 2026 Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber has allocated £255,000 to provide phone storage solutions at 30 secondary schools across Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire, supporting compliance with the recent smartphone ban in schools. Funded by the sale of seized criminal assets, this initiative aims to address anti-social behaviour, with implementations expected in the current school term. |
Drinking very hot tea and coffee can triple your risk of cancer, Oxford study finds The Independent - September 9, 2026 A comprehensive study by the University of Oxford involving nearly one million UK adults reveals that drinking very hot tea and coffee significantly increases the risk of oesophageal cancer, with those consuming beverages at high temperatures facing a threefold risk. Experts advise allowing drinks to cool or adding cold milk to mitigate this potential health concern. |
Possible cause of Bicester Motion fire revealed at pre-inquest Oxford Mail - September 9, 2026 A pre-inquest review revealed that a fatal fire at Bicester Motion, which resulted in the deaths of three people, including two firefighters, may have been triggered by an electrical fault in a maintenance vehicle, though investigations are ongoing. As the case transitions to the Health and Safety Executive for further examination, a full jury inquest is anticipated between March and June 2027, with significant documentary evidence set to be presented. |
Bird campaigner congratulates 'swift legend' Jeremy Clarkson Oxford Mail - September 9, 2026 Hannah Bourne-Taylor, a renowned bird conservation advocate, congratulated Jeremy Clarkson on his National Television Award win for "Clarkson's Farm", praising his commitment to swift conservation through innovative building practices. Her acknowledgment highlights the importance of incorporating nature-friendly solutions in construction to address the significant decline of swift populations in the UK. |
Lamborghini and McLaren win top awards at Salon Privé Oxford Mail - September 9, 2026 At Salon Privé 2026, held at Blenheim Palace, the prestigious Concours d’Elégance was shared for the first time between the 1969 Lamborghini Miura P400 S and the 1995 McLaren F1, highlighting the evolving landscape of collector cars. The event showcased an impressive array of vehicles while introducing the innovative M100 judging system, emphasising engineering and design excellence, and solidifying its status as a premier automotive showcase. |
Kids Planet expands partnership with University College, Oxford
Kids Planet, the UK's second-largest nursery chain, has opened its sixth nursery in collaboration with the University of Oxford, aiming to enhance early years education through innovative learning environments and a curriculum focused on holistic development. This partnership not only strengthens Kids Planet's reputation as a leader in childcare but also serves as a model for best practice in the sector.
Cirencester church seeks alcohol licence for events Cotswold Journal - September 9, 2026 The Parochial Church Council has applied for a premises licence for events at St John Baptist Church in Cirencester, accommodating over 500 attendees until 11:30 PM, inviting public feedback on the application by September 16, 2026, with representations focused on key licensing objectives. For more information, please refer to the Public Notice near GL7 2NH and direct submissions to [email protected]. |
Sport
Oxford Outlook: Football fiesta; Cricket collapse.
United hunt down the Foxes…
Leicester City 0 v 4 Oxford United
The U’s hammered lackadaisical Leicester on City’s home turf last Tuesday. Talk about one-way traffic. It was as if the M40 northbound had turned into the yellow brick road.
Mark Harris bagged a brace, with Missanga and McDonnell also chipping in.
Let’s not get too excited, though. Oxford lie 10th in the League One table, four points off an automatic promotion place. Bouncing straight back into the Championship is imperative. Otherwise, a spanking new stadium complex in Kidlington (complete with hotel) will start to resemble a very large mammal, white, with a trunk and big ears.
Leather on willow…
Oh dear. Cricket can be cruel. Oxfordshire’s finest bowlers and batters came up short of the line last weekend.
Home Counties Premier Cricket League: Division One
Oxford Downs finished third. Banbury ended up fourth.
Division Two
Oxford CC came third in a two-horse race for second and so no garlands and no glory. Enough said.
The Sports Desk
Property news
Italian princess' Oxfordshire manor has £16m price cut in half Oxford Mail - September 9, 2026 Newington House, a stunning 17th-century palazzo near Wallingford, is now available for £7.95 million, down from its original asking price of £16 million. Set within 42 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and rich history, this exceptional estate offers ten bedrooms, modern luxury and the tranquillity of nature, making it an ideal retreat for business professionals or corporate events. |
Oxfordshire thatchers warn of growing straw shortages BBC News - September 9, 2026 Oxfordshire thatchers are grappling with a critical straw shortage due to climate-related crop yield declines, leading to project delays for homeowners and extended waiting times of over two years. In response, industry representatives emphasise ongoing efforts to engage with the sector and explore temporary alternative materials to ensure the preservation of historic buildings while maintaining the integrity of traditional thatching practices. |
Dramatic fire images at Grade II listed Barton House Cotswold Journal - September 7, 2026 Barton House in Barton near Guiting Power sustained extensive damage from a fire on September 5, despite the efforts of firefighters from multiple regional stations. The incident, which compromised the structure significantly, especially the roof, has raised concerns about the estate's future, particularly following its notable sale for £8,280,000 in January 2025. |
Reach Oxford’s most discerning property investors - to list your property here contact [email protected]
What’s on in and around Oxford?
Witney Feast 2026: Sun 13 to Tue 15 Sept on the Leys Witney News - September 5, 2026 Witney Feast will take place at The Leys from September 13 to September 15, 2026, featuring free entry with charges for rides and food. While parking is available in free but time-limited West Oxfordshire District Council car parks, attendees should be mindful of delays during peak evening hours as no road closures could impact access to the event. |
Chipping Norton Mop Fair 2026 The Oxford Magazine - September 5, 2026 The Chipping Norton Mop Fair will take place from September 18 to 19, 2026, transforming the town centre into a lively hub of traditional fairground rides and entertainment, with free entry and operational hours from noon to 10:00 PM. Attendees are advised to anticipate special traffic arrangements affecting local routes and to check official communications for details on attractions and pricing as the event approaches. |
This newsletter was partly curated and summarised by AI agents, who can make mistakes. Check all vital information.
For any issues or inaccuracies, please notify us here
View our AI Ethics Policy