- Oxford News By HANA
- Posts
- Oxford News By Hana Edition 73
Oxford News By Hana Edition 73
Oxford Outlook: Passport to Piddington
Rhidian Wynn Davies
September 17, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 73
Oxford Outlook: Passport to Piddington
Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Click here for instant sign-up.
From our Guest Editor
Oxford Outlook: Passport to Piddington
Let’s dive into easily Oxfordshire’s biggest story of the week. A crime wave? Latest on the housing crisis? Update on the van dwellers?
No, no, no. It’s the Piddington Referendum.
The good people of the village (population c400) staged a symbolic poll in protest at proposals to house some 1,200 asylum seekers at a nearby Ministry of Defence compound close to nearby Bicester. The plans have yet to be approved or rejected.
Villagers voted to leave the UK by a landslide - turnout 312; for: 285, against: 26 (one ballot paper spoiled - who knows how or why?)
The story hit the national headlines - The Daily Telegraph, The Guardian, the BBC.
A quintessential British tale. Quirky, funny and fundamentally kind. Whatever side of the fence one is on in the immigration debate (and many people sit on it, with all the consequent moral splinters that hurt their nether regions) this is peaceful protest at its best.
No thuggery and balaclavas in pretty Piddington. Immigration is, of course, a serious issue for this country. A thorny one. But the fact that a small part of Oxfordshire decided to hold a referendum instead of confronting police officers is to be celebrated - whatever your views on the debate.
The victorious villagers have now dubbed it the “Principality of Piddington”. Royalists rather than Roundheads, perhaps. One supposes that the “People’s Republic of Piddington” never made the parish council agenda.
A thought occurs: “Piddington - the movie.”
Starring the ubiquitous Hugh Grant and, of course, Piddington Bear.
Rhidian Wynn Davies | Guest 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
The brilliant bean counters at the Office for National Statistics tell us that the London Borough of Greenwich is the most similar place to Oxford in terms of the numbers.
So let’s look at a selection of some of the salient stats.
Population (2024)
Greenwich: 299,528. Oxford: 166,034.
Employment rate (2023)
Greenwich: 83.2%. Oxford: 80.8%.
Average house price (June 2026)
Greenwich: £465,132. Oxford: £466,815.
GCSEs in English and Maths (2025)
Greenwich: 73.4%. Oxford: 69.3%.
Cigarette smokers (2020-24)
Greenwich: 10.8%. Oxford: 9.3%.
In short, Oxford wins by a whisker on the fag smoker stat. But houses are slightly more expensive. Go figure, folks.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Botley Road will open this weekend, Network Rail confirms The prolonged closure of a key railway route for over three years due to bridge construction delays has disrupted local traffic and affected businesses dependent on commuter access. Moving forward, it's vital for authorities to communicate clear updates and timelines to help stakeholders navigate these challenges and support economic recovery in the area. |
NATO boss in Oxfordshire to say UK 'serious about security' Oxford Mail - September 16, 2026 Mark Rutte will address the Ditchley Foundation in Enstone, discussing the future of the transatlantic alliance amidst rising threats from Russia and China, while advocating for "NATO 3.0"—a more European-focused approach to collective security and increased defense spending by allies. He emphasizes that Russia's aggression will only reinforce support for Ukraine and strengthen NATO's commitment to deter such threats. |
Oxford Health colleagues discuss palliative care Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust - September 15, 2026 Catch up on our week-long series dedicated to palliative care and Advance Care Planning, where healthcare experts share insights on initiating crucial conversations about future care and supporting families. Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your understanding of palliative care fundamentals and available resources—listen to each episode at your convenience! |
Piddington in Oxfordshire votes to leave UK over asylum plans BBC News - September 16, 2026 Residents of Piddington, Oxfordshire, have staged a symbolic referendum demanding independence in response to the UK government's plan to house over 1,000 male asylum seekers at a nearby military base, with overwhelming local support indicating deep concerns over safety and community impact. Despite the protest, government officials remain committed to the housing initiative, emphasising national solutions for asylum seeker accommodation amid rising local discontent. |
Oxford United Women Put Five Past Hashtag United Oufc - Oxford United Women secured a remarkable 5-0 victory over Hashtag United, marking their sixth consecutive win in the FA WNL Southern Premier Division while maintaining a perfect defensive record. With five different players scoring, they continue to showcase their dominance as they prepare for their upcoming match against Plymouth Argyle. |
Botley Road announcement for Westgate Oxford shoppers Yahoo News UK - September 16, 2026 Shoppers at Westgate Oxford will enjoy improved access with the reopening of Botley Road on September 20, removing previous congestion charges and allowing easier entry via Frideswide Square. As traffic filters are introduced starting September 28, local businesses are urged to adapt to these changes while the ongoing redevelopment of Oxford rail station continues to face significant delays and cost overruns. |
Oxford nurse who asked colleague about sex toys suspended BBC News - September 16, 2026 Nurse Benjamin Terkper has been suspended for 12 months after admitting to sexually harassing a colleague at Nuffield Health in Oxford, with his inappropriate behavior raising serious concerns about his professional conduct. The Nursing and Midwifery Council noted his actions reflect a troubling attitude that could pose risks to patients and the public. |
UK acting legend, 69, opens up on grief before BBC Traitors Oxford Mail - September 16, 2026 Richard E. Grant is set to compete in season 2 of The Celebrity Traitors, premiering on October 1, alongside a roster of celebrities with ties to Oxford, including Michael Sheen and Sebastian Croft. Ahead of the show, Grant honored his late wife, Joan Washington, sharing how he now cherishes her vibrant life rather than dwelling on her final days. |
Oxford tourist tax call raised as devolution plans stall Yahoo News UK - September 16, 2026 Calls for a tourist tax in Oxford are gaining momentum as MP Anneliese Dodds points out that while tourism bolsters the local economy, it also imposes costs on residents. Meanwhile, local government minister Jim McMahon supports advancing devolution plans, despite recent setbacks from Oxfordshire County Council withdrawing from the Thames Valley deal due to concerns over limited governance powers. |
Bicester asylum accommodation plans face council scrutiny Oxford Mail - September 16, 2026 The Home Office has proposed temporary accommodation for up to 1,256 asylum seekers at the former Bicester Garrison, prompting Cherwell District Council to discuss potential concerns about transport, local services, and environmental impact. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their feedback to the Ministry of Housing by September 17, as the final decision rests with central government. |
New Oxford traffic lights worsen congestion, say frustrated residents Yahoo News UK - September 15, 2026 Residents in Littlemore and Rose Hill are raising concerns about increased congestion caused by newly installed traffic lights at the Rose Hill roundabout, prompting local councillors to call for an urgent review. While the upgrade aims to enhance traffic flow and improve bus services, the community is experiencing significant delays, leading Oxfordshire County Council's transport head to schedule a full traffic signal validation. |
Long-awaited plans for 3D cinema at Oxford prison unveiled Oxford Mail - September 16, 2026 Exciting plans are in motion at Oxford Castle Quarter, with Gateway Attractions Ltd proposing the Oxfordshire 360—a transformative 3D cinema experience featuring a planetarium, laser show, and 360-degree viewing space in the historic Round Tower. Coupled with the Oxford Unwrapped initiative, which aims to introduce a motorsport centre and virtual reality experiences, these developments promise to invigorate the area and elevate Oxford's status as a premier tourist destination. |
SPORT
Oxford Outlook: Varsity rivalry with studs on
Football
Oxford United 3 v 0 Burton Albion (Sat 12/9)
The U’s left it late but ran out comfortable winners against Burton, with goals in the 76th, 90th and 94th minutes.
The victory saw United reach the giddy heights of the playoff places in League One, with a game in hand. But there’s a long way to go.
Top of the Table
1 Sheffield Wednesday (13 points)
2 Huddersfield Town (12 points)
——————————————————
3 Bradford City (12 points)
4 Cambridge United (11 points)
5 Oxford United (10 points)
6 Plymouth Argyle (10 points)
Oxford United v Cambridge United (Sat 19/9)
This is the big one. Forget about Arsenal v Man City or Liverpool v Man United. This is the match that matters.
It’s the equivalent of the Boat Race, only played on grass - wearing shin pads rather than chopping through the Thames with oars. This Saturday, the beverages will be more beer than Champagne and Pimm’s. And the language from the stands may be a good deal fruitier than one would expect from spectators gathered at Hammersmith Bridge.
Fourth in the table clash with fifth in a Titanic tussle. It’s a derby (of sorts).
One big question. What on earth will fans in all four sides of the ground chant in support of their teams? Both are United and both are nicknamed The U’s. Rallying cries of “United!” and “come you U’s!” may prove confusing for players punching it out on the pitch.
Property news
Oxford City Council picks up two top honours at the OXProp Awards
Oxford City Council — 11 September 2026
OX Place, the council's development company, won Best Residential Development for Fishers Vale in Old Marston — 40 fully affordable homes, split between 21 council homes for social rent and 19 shared ownership properties. OxWED, the council's joint venture with Nuffield College, took Best Future Development for its plans to turn the Oxpens brownfield site into a riverside neighbourhood with 50% affordable housing, student accommodation, offices and a new hotel.
Consultation opens on 240 homes for Redbridge Paddock
Oxford Mail — 14 September 2026, Larissa Hurt
OX Place has unveiled plans for 240 new homes — from one-bedroom flats to five-bedroom houses, including social rent and shared ownership — on an 11-acre council-owned site opposite Redbridge Park and Ride. More than 30% of the site would be public open space, with landscaped areas and a linked cycle route. A public exhibition runs on 23 and 24 September at St Luke's Church, with comments due by 6pm on 11 October ahead of an outline application later this year.
Bertie Place's 31 affordable homes approved despite judicial review threat
The Oxford Magazine and Oxford Clarion — 12–15 September 2026
Oxford City Council has reaffirmed approval for 31 affordable homes off Abingdon Road, despite objections from campaigners who wanted to keep the site's existing play area. Councillors heard that recently revised planning rules on protecting green and play space were outweighed by a nearby "reprovision," meaning officers judged the scheme would not cause substantial harm. Campaigners say they will keep fighting the decision and are consulting lawyers about a possible judicial review.
Council votes to sell city centre building for student flats
Hello Rayo — 10 September 2026, Isabella Harris
Oxford City Council's cabinet voted on 16 September on selling 11 New Road, near the Westgate centre, to St Peter's College, which wants to quadruple its student bedrooms there from 6 to 24. The plan would replace a nail bar with permanent student flats, extend the building slightly into the college's grounds, and match it stylistically to the neighbouring Stokes' pastry school building. The property currently earns the council £110,280 a year in rent; a decision on the linked planning application is expected by 12 October.
Oracle billionaire builds ahead of planning permission at Oxfordshire estate
The Telegraph — 12 September 2026
Larry Ellison has already laid foundations for an indoor basketball court and staff lodges at his private Oxfordshire estate, even though Vale of White Horse District Council has yet to rule on the plans. His company, Jozu UK LLC, has spent close to £20m assembling the estate, which would also gain a sports pitch, stables and a six-horse riding arena. Planning specialists warn the works could trigger enforcement action and a Community Infrastructure Levy charge running into hundreds of thousands of pounds if the retrospective application fails.
Reach Bristol’s most discerning property investors - to list your property here contact [email protected]
What’s on in Oxford this weekend?
Oxford Wine Festival – Examination Schools, Friday and Saturday
More than 40 merchants and vineyards bring hundreds of unusual wines from 25 countries to the High Street, accompanied by expert tastings, food and live jazz. Friday runs 6pm–10pm; Saturday sessions are 12.30pm–4.30pm and 6pm–10pm. Tickets £24.50, including ten samples.
Ben Macintyre: Redwood – Mathematical Institute, Friday
The bestselling espionage historian tells the remarkable story of a KGB officer recruited by MI6 during the turmoil of 1980s Iran—and his part in averting a possible nuclear confrontation. Starts 6.30pm; tickets £10–£18.
Fin Taylor: The Pre-emptive Comeback Special – New Theatre, Friday
The sharp, fearless stand-up tackles politics, culture and modern behaviour in his biggest tour yet. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm show; under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
Oxford Canal Festival – Aristotle Lane Recreation Ground, Saturday
The weekend’s big free community event features live music, boat trips, a dog show, storytelling from The Story Museum, canal walks, children’s games, crafts, street food and trading boats. It runs from 11.30am–8pm; there is no event parking, so arrive on foot, by bicycle or public transport.
Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials – Woodstock, Saturday and Sunday
World-class eventing brings dressage, cross-country and showjumping to Blenheim, alongside family activities, food and more than 200 trade stands. Open 9.30am–5pm; parking and entry for children aged 12 and under are free, although the event itself is separately ticketed.
Family Day – Science Oxford Centre, Saturday
Families can experiment with interactive exhibits, build giant ball runs, test flying designs, explore 6 hectares of woodland and make a splash in the Water Lab. Two-hour sessions begin at 10am, 12.30pm and 3pm; tickets are £9.50, with under-threes free.
Oxford’s Queer History Walk – Museum of Oxford, Saturday
Discover the people, pubs, clubs and campaigns that shaped Oxford’s LGBTQIA+ history on this 90-minute guided walk. It starts at the Museum of Oxford at 11am; tickets are £15 and advance booking is required.
David Coulthard and Mika Häkkinen – New Theatre, Saturday
The former McLaren team-mates reunite for an evening of Formula One stories, rivalry and behind-the-scenes insight, hosted by Channel 4 presenter Steve Jones. Starts at 7.30pm; recommended for ages 12 and over.
Barracks Lane Community Garden Harvest – East Oxford, Sunday
A relaxed, family-friendly harvest celebration featuring apple pressing, face painting, DIY pizza and activities in one of East Oxford’s loveliest community spaces. It runs from 11am–3pm; entry is free, with donations requested for food and activities.
Oxford Coffee Concert – Holywell Music Room, Sunday
Harpsichordist Laurence Cummings and flautist Rachel Brown perform music by Bach, Handel, Lully, Gluck and Vivaldi in Europe’s oldest purpose-built concert hall. The one-hour concert begins at 11.15am; tickets are £17, with limited free places for accompanied children aged five to ten.
All Aboard the Jazz Express – North Wall Arts Centre, Sunday
The Hot Jazz Vagabonds offer a musical journey from Paris to Istanbul, mixing hot 1930s jazz, European chanson, theatre, comedy and post-war swing. Performances are at 4pm and 7pm; tickets operate on a £16–£20 pay-what-you-can scale.
All photos are credited to Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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