Local news: Oxford
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Congestion charge faces stronger opposition outside Oxford city
Opposition to Oxfordshire’s proposed congestion charge is much stronger in rural areas than in the city, according to new consultation data. While 74% of all respondents said the £5 scheme would negatively affect them, figures show resistance peaks in areas like Carterton, Witney and Kidlington.
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Oxford art fair DEPOT announces 2025 edition with top galleries and special highlights
DEPOT returns to Oxford from 25–28 September 2025, bringing together leading galleries, artists, and cultural partners in its innovative exhibition–fair format, with highlights including Stanley Donwood & Thom Yorke, independent publishing showcases, and a dynamic talks programme.
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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.
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Councillors call for rural bus funding from congestion charge income at scrutiny meeting
Oxfordshire councillors have urged that income from a proposed congestion charge be used to support rural and deprived communities. At a scrutiny meeting, members raised fairness concerns, recommending funds go to bus subsidies and rural transport improvements.
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Frilford Heath Golf Club members raise over £25,000 for Homeless Oxfordshire
Frilford Heath Golf Club members raised more than £25k for Homeless Oxfordshire through tournaments and community events, funding safe housing and vital support services for people experiencing homelessness.
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OrganOx delivers record returns for BGF with landmark $1.5bn MedTech valuation exit
Oxford’s OrganOx has been acquired in a landmark $1.5bn deal, delivering BGF’s biggest-ever return and cementing its status as one of the UK’s largest MedTech exits to date.
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Cowley locals fear disproportionate impact from Oxford congestion charge
Cowley residents and businesses fear Oxford’s congestion charge could hit them harder than other areas, with warnings of lost trade and longer journeys.
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Campaigners say Oxford congestion charge survey was biased towards objectors
Campaigners from CoHSAT insist Oxford’s proposed congestion charge is the “best option” to tackle traffic, despite 74 per cent of residents opposing it. The scheme has won support from bus and cycling groups but faces opposition from businesses, schools and petitioners.
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Labour says Oxford congestion charge plans are “half-baked” and ignore public opinion
Labour has demanded Oxfordshire County Council withdraw its “half-baked” £5 congestion charge plans. With 74 per cent of consultation respondents opposing the scheme, councillors warn it will hit deprived communities hardest and call instead for cheaper, more accessible public transport alternatives.
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Schools, businesses, nursery and rescue volunteers voice fears over Oxford congestion charge
Schools, businesses, nurseries and rescue volunteers have warned that Oxfordshire County Council’s proposed £5 congestion charge could damage staff recruitment, childcare, emergency response and local trade.
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Westgate Oxford warns congestion charge could ‘hamper’ city businesses and put off visitors
Westgate Oxford has warned that the city’s proposed £5 congestion charge could deter visitors and harm businesses. Landsec, which owns the shopping centre, said the plans risk reducing footfall unless significant investment in public transport is made.
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Lowland Rescue Oxfordshire calls for exemption from £5 congestion charge
Lowland Rescue Oxfordshire has raised concerns that the proposed £5 congestion charge in Oxford would hinder volunteers’ ability to respond to emergencies, saying the scheme is “unacceptable” for those already giving their time and resources freely.