And finally… plans lodged for UK’s first all-electric stadium
Oxford United Football Club has submitted a full planning application for its proposed new stadium.
The club has formally submitted an application to Cherwell District Council to build a new, modern, eco-friendly 16,000-capacity stadium on an area of land known as The Triangle, near Kidlington, as part of a mixed-use development.
The club will also undertake a planning application process to build a bridge as part of the development plans to further enhance connectivity.
The proposal submitted presents an opportunity to provide a new home for sport, entertainment, business, community, education and tourism which the whole county can be proud of. The design includes a 180-bed hotel, conference and event space, along with a health and wellbeing centre, to help deliver significant economic and social benefits to Oxfordshire.
The visitor experience, inclusivity and sustainability have been placed at the heart of the design. It would be the first all-electric stadium in the UK and includes a safe standing allocation, sensory room, 130 wheelchair spaces and wellbeing gardens.
United’s history would also be incorporated into design features, including a modern interpretation of the famous Manor Ground arch at the entrance.
Jon Clarke, development director at Oxford United, said: “Today is a significant milestone in our stadium development plans and for the future sustainability of the club.
“We have taken the opportunity to create something truly incredible that not only places the visitor experience at its heart but is sustainable and will deliver huge benefits to our community and economy.
“Submitting our full planning application further demonstrates the club’s commitment to delivering a new state-of-the-art landmark that will benefit the entire community.
“Our thanks go to our whole stadium project team who have worked tirelessly to submit this extensive planning application. We received a high volume of feedback during the public consultation and revised our plans based on some observations. This process helped ensure we got our application correct and, in light of the extensive response received, took slightly longer than anticipated.
“We look forward to continuing to share details of the plans and working closely with key stakeholders including Cherwell District Council and Oxfordshire County Council to bring our vision to reality.”
Submitting a full planning application comes after Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet gave principle consent to lease the triangle site to the club. Oxford United’s lease at the Kassam Stadium comes to an end in 2026.