News
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Businesses and residents divided over Oxford congestion charge plans
Oxford’s £5 daily congestion charge has sparked a heated debate, with over 11,000 signatures against the scheme. Supporters say it will cut traffic, while critics warn it risks small businesses.
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Greater Oxford Council plan enters consultation phase across county
Oxford City Council has launched a public consultation on proposals to replace Oxfordshire’s six local councils with three, including a new Greater Oxford Council. The plan aims to simplify local governance, improve service delivery, and make councils more responsive.
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Cliveden Literary Festival returns to Cliveden House this October
The Cliveden Literary Festival will take place this October, offering a weekend of political debate, literary discussion, and cultural inspiration. Celebrated for its elegant setting and thought-provoking programme, past speakers include Salman Rushdie, Ian McEwan, and Rachel Weisz.
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Energy Superhub Oxford marks third anniversary of cutting carbon and powering change
Energy Superhub Oxford is marking its third anniversary with impressive achievements in clean energy and carbon reduction. Since opening in July 2022, it has powered over 137,000 electric vehicles and saved 3,584 tonnes of carbon emissions.
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Kids to eat free this summer at Marco Pierre White’s Oxford restaurant
Families can enjoy affordable dining this summer thanks to a special offer at Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse at the Leonardo Royal Hotel on Godstow Road, Oxford. During the school holidays, children under 12 can eat free when accompanied by a full-paying adult.
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Solar panel and battery scheme by Oxfordshire County Council reaches milestone
A solar panel and battery storage trial led by Oxfordshire County Council, in partnership with SMS and Metis, has reached its 100th household installation. Funded by the government’s Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, the scheme allows residents to pay just £40 per month, avoiding large upfront costs.
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Audi Presents Wilderness returns to Cornbury Park with music, art, and family fun
Audi Presents Wilderness returns to Cornbury Park in summer 2025, celebrating creativity, music, food, wellness, and family fun. With headliners like Wet Leg, Basement Jaxx, and Supergrass, and standout sets from emerging artists, the music is just the beginning.
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Oxford University names Gavin Svenson as new director of Museum of Natural History
The University of Oxford has appointed Dr Gavin J. Svenson as Director of the Museum of Natural History, effective September 2025. Previously Chief Science Officer at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Dr Svenson brings vast expertise in museum transformation, scientific research, and public engagement.
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Rest, prep, and recover with Mollie’s Restival for summer festival-goers
Mollie’s has unveiled its new Restival at Mollie’s range, designed to support festival-goers with stylish essentials for pre- and post-event comfort – available from 17 July 2025 at its Oxfordshire and Bristol locations.
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Vale and Downland Museum fête to launch major fundraising campaign in Wantage
The Vale and Downland Museum in Wantage will launch a major new fundraising campaign during its annual fête on Saturday, 12 July. Marking 50 years since its founding, the museum hopes to rally community support to secure its future.
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NHS Blood and Transplant supports Westfield Health British Transplant Games
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is supporting the 2025 Westfield Health British Transplant Games in Oxfordshire. The event will celebrate the life-changing power of transplantation, with over 2,642 entries across 26 sports.
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New primary school at Heyford Park to support growing community
Dorchester Living has unveiled plans for a new primary school at Heyford Park to serve the expanding community. Designed for 315 pupils and a 75-place nursery, the school will meet BREEAM “Very Good” and net zero carbon standards using solar and ground source energy.
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Richard Hammond to judge Salon Privé Concours de Vente at 20th-anniversary event
Salon Privé will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a thrilling new Supercar Sunday & Lifestyle Club Trophy Day at Blenheim Palace on 31 August and motoring icon Richard Hammond will judge the prestigious Concours de Vente and present the Lifestyle Club Trophy.
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Jade Dixon appointed General Manager at Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa
Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa has named Jade Dixon as its new General Manager. She previously led Cambridge Belfry to success and will now focus on transforming operations and enhancing the guest journey in Oxfordshire.
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Leaders of Oxford public travel groups express support for congestion charge plan
Oxford’s key travel groups, including bus companies, taxi associations, and active travel advocates, have jointly called on Oxfordshire County Council to implement a temporary congestion charge. Their letter highlights the need to free up road space, improve bus reliability, and support sustainable transport modes
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EFL highlights community benefits of new football stadiums ahead of Oxford United plans
The English Football League’s charitable arm, EFL in the Community, has voiced strong support for Oxford United’s proposed new stadium, citing its wide-reaching benefits, including supporting local health and wellbeing, reducing NHS pressures, and creating nearly 1,000 jobs, with 20% reserved for locals.