Olivia Churchill
Latest news and stories
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Oxford science festival brings hands-on experiments and planetary adventures to half-term
Families can handle fragments of asteroids and the Moon, explore robotics and try interactive science activities at Zone ONE, the flagship event of the 2026 IF Oxford Science and Ideas Festival, returning to Oxford North this October.
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Oxfordshire bus operators shortlisted for three national awards
Oxfordshire’s bus operators have secured three nominations at the UK Bus Awards 2026, recognising work on electric buses, industry performance and community health initiatives. The results will be announced at a ceremony in London on 24 November.
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West Oxfordshire transport plan approved, with better links to Oxford a priority
Oxfordshire County Council has approved a 25-year transport strategy for Witney, Carterton and surrounding communities, prioritising sustainable travel and improved connections to Oxford, where many residents commute for work.
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Oxford City Farm features on specially branded bus after winning £20k advertising package
Oxford City Farm is reaching a wider audience after receiving a £20k advertising package as runner-up in Oxford Bus Company’s Brand the Bus competition. The initiative will promote the East Oxford charity and its work in sustainable food production and community wellbeing.
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Deanfield Homes begins construction on 26 new homes at Clementine Gardens in Charlbury
Construction has begun on Clementine Gardens, a new development of 26 homes in Charlbury, Oxfordshire. The scheme will include two, three and four-bedroom properties, with a show home expected to open in spring 2027.
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Oxfordshire fire service proposals would bring full-time firefighters to five towns
Oxfordshire County Council will consider proposals to station full-time firefighters in Bicester, Chipping Norton, Faringdon, Witney and Henley during the day, as part of plans to improve emergency response and strengthen community safety.
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Free shuttle bus to Harcourt Arboretum Autumn Fair from Oxford
A free shuttle bus will connect Redbridge Park & Ride with Harcourt Arboretum on 24 October for the Autumn Fair, featuring woodland walks, traditional crafts, live demonstrations and seasonal activities.
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Fashion retailer Bershka to open at Westgate Oxford this October
Fashion retailer Bershka will open its first Oxfordshire store at Westgate Oxford on 29 October. The 11,000 sq ft store will offer clothing, footwear and accessories for women, men and teenagers.
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Oxford Half 2027 sells out standard entries in just four hours
Standard entries for the 2027 Oxford Half sold out within four hours of the 2026 race finishing, setting a new record. Charity places and a limited number of premium tickets remain available for next October’s event.
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Bicester recycling centre plans outline £6 million replacement for Ardley site
Oxfordshire County Council is developing plans for a £6 million recycling centre near Bicester Park and Ride to replace the ageing Ardley site. The proposed facility would include modern recycling services and a reuse shop, with completion targeted for 2030.
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Oxford Half 2026 attracts 15,000 registered runners as charity fundraising tops £1.3m
The Oxford Half brought 15,000 registered runners to the city on Sunday 11 October, raising more than £1.3m for charity. The 15th anniversary event also featured more than 1,000 schoolchildren completing the Oxford Schools’ Challenge.
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Oxford businesses raise concerns as petition against 11 New Road sale passes 500 signatures
Concerns have been raised over plans to sell the council-owned 11 New Road to St Peter’s College for student accommodation, as a petition opposing the sale passes 500 signatures.
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Thornhill Park and Ride to offer 8- and 15-day long-stay parking for airport travellers
Oxfordshire County Council is set to introduce new long-stay parking for airport travellers at Thornhill Park and Ride, with eight-day parking costing £15 and 15-day parking £30, allowing travellers to leave their cars while using buses to Heathrow and Gatwick.
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Oxford University plans for Wellington Square development approved despite Jericho objections
Plans to demolish a Wellington Square building and replace it with academic space and student accommodation have been approved by Oxford councillors, despite objections over the loss of mature trees, biodiversity and a much-loved community space.
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Oxford edge village could see 150 new homes under development plans
A proposal for up to 150 new homes at Sandford-on-Thames has opened for consultation, with developers pointing to links with Oxford, the A4074 and the proposed reopening of the Cowley Branch Line.
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Oxfordshire’s SEND reform plan backed as county expands specialist school places
Oxfordshire’s SEND reform plan has been approved by government as the county prepares to expand specialist provision, including a new £24.2m community special school in Didcot. The programme aims to increase support, specialist expertise and local school places for children and young people.