Government & Politics
Browse news and stories about local government and politics in Oxfordshire, including the administration of Oxfordshire county and the city and district councils by the representatives elected by those who live there.
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Oxfordshire County Council chief executive awarded OBE in King’s Birthday Honours
Dr Martin Reeves, Chief Executive of Oxfordshire County Council, has been awarded an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to local government. The honour recognises more than 25 years of leadership across major UK councils, including Coventry City Council and Oxfordshire County Council.
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County Council agrees deal to bring Castle Quarter lease back into public ownership
Oxfordshire County Council has agreed to purchase the long-term lease of Oxford’s Castle Quarter. The move is expected to support future regeneration in a key city centre location between the station, Westgate and Oxford’s historic core.
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Leadership change at Oxfordshire County Council as Liz Leffman steps down
Councillor Liz Leffman is to step down as leader of Oxfordshire County Council and the Liberal Democrat group, with Councillor Tim Bearder elected as the new group leader.
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Voters across Oxfordshire urged to take part in local elections this Thursday
Voters across Oxford City, Cherwell and West Oxfordshire are reminded that local elections take place this Thursday (07 May), with polling stations open from 7.00am to 10.00pm. Photo ID is required to cast a ballot.
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Oxfordshire County Council urges residents to support One Oxfordshire proposal
Oxfordshire County Council says One Oxfordshire offers the strongest option for local government reform, promising financial savings, streamlined services and clearer accountability ahead of a key consultation deadline.
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Oxfordshire farmers warned to act before inheritance tax changes take effect
Oxfordshire farmers are being warned to act quickly before new inheritance tax rules take effect in April 2026, with experts cautioning that the changes could force some rural families to sell farmland to cover future tax liabilities.
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Oxfordshire local government shake-up risks being a “great distraction,” thinktank warns
A thinktank has warned that Oxfordshire’s proposed local government restructure risks becoming a “great distraction” if not done properly – shifting focus from pressing issues like affordable housing, transport, and public services, leaving local residents unsure of who is responsible for key decisions.
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Have your say on the biggest local government shake-up in Oxfordshire for 50 years
Oxfordshire residents are being urged to take part in a government consultation that could fundamentally reshape how local services are delivered for decades to come. From a single countywide authority to three distinct councils, Oxfordshire faces a defining choice over how it is governed.
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Empty homes tax in Oxford expected to raise nearly £1m this year
Oxford’s empty homes council tax premium is expected to raise nearly £1m this year, incentivising owners to bring properties back into use amid a housing shortage
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Ongoing coverage of the local government devolution proposals
Ongoing coverage of the government’s proposed local government devolution plans and their potential impact on Oxfordshire.
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West Oxfordshire estate agent warns new ‘mansion tax’ could become an administrative nightmare
He warns that the proposed mansion tax will hit local people who aren’t multi-millionaires, but are often long-term owners whose home value has crept up over the decades
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Government backs Oxfordshire Youth Support with £634k funding boost
Oxfordshire County Council has received £634k from the government to strengthen youth support across the county. The funding will help develop a sustainable model for youth services, supporting vulnerable young people.
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Oxford City Council leader urges Government to decide on Oxford United stadium plans
Oxford City Council leader Susan Brown has urged the Government to fast-track a decision on Oxford United’s proposed new stadium, warning the club must leave the Kassam by 2028. Supporters and opponents remain divided as the final decision is delayed.
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Oxfordshire MPs urge swift approval of Oxford United’s new stadium plans
Two Oxfordshire MPs have urged the government to approve Oxford United’s new stadium plans without delay, warning that the club’s future is at risk. The 16,000-seater project has cleared local hurdles but now awaits a decision from the Secretary of State.
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City council survey respondents support smaller and more localised councils
Respondents to an Oxford City Council survey on local government reorganisation have expressed support for smaller, more localised councils. The online consultation attracted 1,580 responses from across Oxfordshire and West Berkshire.
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Oxford tourist tax proposal sparks debate among businesses
Oxford businesses are divided over a proposed tourist tax, with some warning it could add pressure on hotels already grappling with a congestion charge. The city council says the levy, introduced through an Abid, could raise £2.5m a year.