Oxfordshire County Council News
Browse news and stories about Oxfordshire County Council – the local authority for the county of Oxfordshire responsible for delivering services like social care, education and transport to the county’s 600,000+ residents.
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Inspectors confirm effective progress in Oxfordshire’s SEND services
Ofsted and the CQC have praised Oxfordshire’s progress in improving SEND services, highlighting stronger leadership, better communication and improved support for children and families. Inspectors said effective action has been taken but noted continued work is needed to maintain improvements.
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Oxfordshire approves bold 15 year plan OxRail 2040 to transform rail travel
Oxfordshire County Council has approved OxRail 2040, an ambitious 15-year plan focused on electrification, new stations, improved rail links and a more integrated transport network. The strategy aims to support growth, enhance sustainability and improve passenger and freight services across the county.
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Oxfordshire approves major changes to household waste recycling centres
Oxfordshire County Council has approved new operating hours and policy changes for its household waste recycling centres, including a booking system, visitor charges for non-residents and updated permit rules. The revisions follow extensive public consultation and will be introduced from 2026 onwards.
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Oxfordshire launches ambitious local nature recovery strategy
Oxfordshire has launched its Local Nature Recovery Strategy — a bold, collaborative roadmap to restore biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, and reconnect people with nature through a pioneering interactive mapping tool and countywide community partnerships.
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Drivers flouting parking rules warned of fines as Oxfordshire launches parking crackdown
Oxfordshire County Council is increasing parking enforcement across the county, targeting unsafe and inconsiderate driving, particularly around schools and in new controlled parking zones.
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New player shelters by Externiture give Chipping Norton Swifts FC a boost
Chipping Norton Swifts FC has unveiled two new Externiture-donated player shelters at Greystones. Complete with club colours and practical features, they debuted during the U13 girls’ 10–0 season-opening win and have been warmly welcomed by players and coaches.
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Oxfordshire approves new scheme to cut disruption from roadworks
Oxfordshire County Council has been approved to introduce a lane rental scheme, charging utility firms for roadworks during peak times to reduce disruption. The initiative targets key routes and aims to shorten works and improve traffic flow.
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Primary school application process opens in Oxfordshire
Parents of children born between September 2021 and August 2022 can now apply for primary school places in Oxfordshire for September 2026. Officials urge families to list four schools and apply before the 15 January deadline.
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Oxfordshire launches agile highway response teams ‘HART’ to boost maintenance
Oxfordshire County Council and M Group have launched Highways Asset Response Teams (HARTs) to deliver rapid, visible improvements across the county.
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Oxford to benefit from major bus network improvements and free Park & Ride
Oxford’s bus network is set for major improvements from 09 November, , including free Park & Ride travel, more frequent services, and faster connections to hospitals and key areas, as part of the Oxfordshire Bus Enhanced Partnership.
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Music tech inspires young talent at Oxford’s Rose Hill Junior Youth Club
Young people in Oxford are learning to create their own music at Rose Hill Junior Youth Club through new tech-driven sessions organised by Oxfordshire County Council’s music service, offering creative and social opportunities for children in a supportive community setting.
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Oxfordshire invites residents to think up names for its new winter gritter fleet
Oxfordshire residents are invited to help name the county’s new gritters, adding a fun twist to winter road safety. Submit your creative ideas by 05 November for a chance to see your name on a gritter.
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Residents invited to help shape future of Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service
Oxfordshire County Council has launched a consultation inviting residents to shape the future of its Fire and Rescue Service, including plans to rebalance resources, improve response times, and enhance safety across the county.
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Oxfordshire accelerates £27.5m developer funding for community projects
Oxfordshire County Council has approved a £27.5 million plan to accelerate spending of developer contributions, unlocking 33 community projects including travel, road, and village improvements across the county.
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Oxfordshire to strengthen partnership with bus operators to improve services
Oxfordshire County Council has approved an Enhanced Partnership Plus model to strengthen collaboration with bus operators, aiming to improve services, reduce costs, and enhance passenger experiences while avoiding the lengthy and costly franchising process.
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Oxfordshire communities to decide on part-night streetlighting under new council policy
Oxfordshire communities can now request part-night streetlighting, with lights turned off overnight only if safety standards are met. The new policy supports carbon reduction and biodiversity, with decisions made locally and reviewed by Thames Valley Police.