Oxford United has confirmed that its planning application for a new stadium will be considered in early 2025.
This is following requests for additional information and studies from Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council.
The proposed 16,000-capacity stadium, to be located at the Triangle near Kidlington, will include a 180-bed hotel, a restaurant, a conference centre, a health and wellbeing space, a gym, and a community plaza.
The stadium project management team has been in regular discussions with the planning department. These discussions have progressed well, and the ongoing additional work and modelling are expected to provide further clarity for the planning committee.
With the planning submission to be reviewed in early 2025, Oxford United is exploring short-term alternatives for the period between the lease expiration at Kassam Stadium in 2026 and the new stadium’s completion.
Recently, the club secured a legally binding land lease option agreement and a community collaboration agreement. These contracts mark a significant milestone in ensuring a long-term home for the 131-year-old club in Oxfordshire.
The club aims to build a modern, eco-friendly stadium that will serve as a community landmark and significantly contribute to Oxfordshire’s economy and society.
This project represents a unique opportunity to provide a new venue for sport, entertainment, business, community, education, and tourism.
Jonathan Clarke, Oxford United’s Development Director, stated, “We are fully committed to following the planning process, supporting the planning department in their review, and delivering on our vision. We have made excellent progress with the lease option agreement, and we are now focused on obtaining the necessary planning permissions and preparing for the build.”
“Large-scale developments, especially within a Green Belt area, require additional modelling and careful examination. We look forward to fulfilling all requests for additional information and submitting further details in due course.”
The new stadium is expected to deliver significant economic and social benefits to Oxfordshire, including job creation, tourism boosts, improved transport links, enhanced green spaces, and support for local charities, sports groups, and schools.
Design considerations for visitor experience, inclusivity, and sustainability are central to the project. The stadium will be the first all-electric stadium in the UK, featuring safe standing areas, a sensory room, 130 wheelchair spaces, and wellbeing gardens. The lease option agreement ensures Oxford United’s right to play at the stadium and includes safeguards on rent and facility use.
The community collaboration agreement formalises the club’s commitment to social, environmental, and economic benefits for the community, aligning with the council’s strategic priorities.
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