Oxford United signs lease on land for new home stadium

Oxford United has signed a legally binding lease option with Oxfordshire County Council for the Triangle in Wheatley – a patch of land where the club plans to build its new stadium.

The completion of these contracts marks a significant step forward in securing Oxford United a long-term home in the county and a future for the 131-year-old football club.

Earlier this year, an application was submitted to build a modern, eco-friendly 16,000 capacity stadium.

The club will be able to fully exercise the 250-year lease once planning permission has been obtained from Cherwell District Council for the development.

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.  

It’s also signed a community collaboration agreement, which formalises the club’s commitment to social, environmental and economic benefits for local residents – including improved public transport and a net zero development process.

Grant Ferguson, chairman of Oxford United, said: “This is a major step forward in our exciting stadium development plans and for the long-term sustainability of the club.  

“On behalf of the club, I’d like to extend a thank you to our stadium project team, to all our supporters and to Oxfordshire County Council.

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with key stakeholders to bring our vision to reality.” 

Jon Clarke, development director, added: “From the outset, the club has sought to create a stadium and venue that protects the future of Oxford United and delivers significant benefits to the wider community.

“The signing of this lease option is a major milestone and allows us to fully focus on obtaining planning.

“The project team has worked tirelessly for over three years to get us to this point – we can now move forward with certainty and confidence knowing we have secured the land deal.”

Plans include a 180-bed hotel, conference and event space, along with a health and wellbeing centre.

The club would also boast the first all-electric stadium in the UK, with safe standing allocation, a sensory room, 130 wheelchair spaces and wellbeing gardens.