Oxford United expects decision on stadium plans in early 2025
Oxford United has confirmed it now expects the planning application for its new stadium proposal to be considered in early 2025.
The plans to build a 16,000-capacity stadium on the Triangle near Kidlington include a 180-bed hotel, restaurant, conference centre, health and wellbeing space, gym and community plaza.
The stadium project management team has been meeting regularly with both district and county councillors and key stakeholders, and discussions have been ‘progressing well’ over the past few months.
With the planning submission likely to be considered in early 2025, Oxford United is actively exploring alternative short-term provisions for the period between the lease at the Kassam Stadium expiring in 2026 and the new stadium being ready.
The club recently announced it had secured the legally binding land lease option agreement and a community collaboration agreement.
Jonathan Clarke, development director at Oxford United, said: “We’re fully committed to following the planning process, supporting the planning department in their review and delivering on our vision.
“We’ve made excellent progress recently with the signing of the lease option.
“Although this process took longer than originally envisaged, it has provided a platform for the club to move forward with confidence.
“We’re now focused on obtaining the necessary planning permissions and preparing for the build.
“It’s common that large-scale developments, especially ones within a green belt area, require additional modelling and careful examination.
“We look forward to fulfilling all the requests for additional information and submitting further details in due course.”
The club says its new stadium will deliver ‘significant economic and social benefits’ to Oxfordshire – creating new jobs, boosting tourism, improving transport links, enhancing green spaces, and supporting local charities, sports groups and schools.
Oxford United would boast the first all-electric stadium in the UK, with safe standing allocation, sensory room, 130 wheelchair spaces and wellbeing gardens.
The lease option agreement includes provisions to ensure Oxford United’s right to play at the stadium is secured, along with safeguards on rent and use of facilities.
