Plans to redevelop Oxford’s Ozone Leisure Park, including new leisure facilities, laboratories, infrastructure improvements and the restoration of a historic pub, are set to be approved next week.
Planning officers at Oxford City Council have recommended approval for the major redevelopment scheme, which will be considered by the council’s planning committee on Tuesday, 14 July.
The proposals from Firoka Group, Pioneer Group and Bidwells would transform the site beside the Oxford United Football Club’s Kassam Stadium, replacing the current leisure complex with a mixed-use destination.
The plans have been subject to years of debate, following earlier proposals to replace the existing Vue Cinema and Hollywood Bowl with laboratory space. Those plans attracted petitions from thousands of residents before revised proposals were submitted in 2025.
New cinema, leisure facilities and laboratories
The latest proposals include a new four-screen cinema with capacity for up to 510 people, alongside continued leisure uses including an arcade and bowling alley.
Developers have also proposed opportunities for an outdoor cinema and food market, alongside laboratory space, an electrical substation and a transport hub designed to support future connectivity improvements, including the proposed Cowley Station.
The applicants argue that the existing Ozone facilities are “no longer sustainable” and need to evolve to secure jobs, attract investment and provide a modern community destination.
The redevelopment could support at least 1,700 jobs, while the council’s planning report states that the scheme would provide “additional employment and a boost to the local economy”.
Historic pub set for restoration
A key element of the revised plans is the restoration of the derelict Minchery Farmhouse, also known as The Priory.
The Grade II listed building, which dates back around 600 years to the former Littlemore Priory, closed suddenly in 2013 after previously operating as a pub and country club.
Under the proposals, the building would be restored as a public house with medicinal gardens reflecting the site’s historic connections.
Developers describe the southern community hub as being “anchored by the historic Minchery Farmhouse”, creating a link between the site’s heritage and its future use.
Concerns raised over environment and safety
While officers have recommended approval, concerns have been raised by the Environment Agency and Thames Valley Police.
The Environment Agency has raised issues relating to habitat impacts, while police representatives have requested further information around crime prevention measures.
The planning officer’s recommendation is subject to addressing outstanding Environment Agency comments and includes a number of conditions designed to manage the impact of the development.
Investment in local infrastructure
As part of the proposals, legal agreements would require developers to contribute millions towards local improvements.
The council report states that £4.225 million would be provided for measures including transport, parking, road improvements and bus services, while more than £8 million would be required through infrastructure contributions.
If approved, the redevelopment would mark a significant change for one of Oxford’s major leisure destinations and reshape the site for future employment, entertainment and community use.
Reporting contribution by Isabella Harris, Local Democracy Reporter (LDR) for Oxfordshire, covering local politics, council meetings and planning decisions across six councils in the county.
