The judicial review brought by Friends of Stratfield Brake is deeply disappointing, but not entirely surprising.
Let’s be absolutely clear: Oxford United’s new stadium application has been one of the most scrutinised, detailed and rigorously assessed planning applications I have ever seen. Time and time again, the Club was required to provide further evidence, undertake additional studies, answer questions, address concerns and jump through countless hoops. Every stage of the process was examined in extraordinary detail.
After years of consultation, professional assessment and democratic scrutiny, Cherwell District Council made its decision and granted planning permission. That decision was not taken lightly. It followed extensive consideration by planning officers, experts and elected councillors who weighed all of the evidence before them.
Now, a small group of individuals are seeking to overturn that democratic decision through the courts. While everyone has the right to pursue legal avenues available to them, it is important to recognise what is at stake. Continued delays create uncertainty for the Club, its supporters, local businesses and the wider community that stands to benefit from this once-in-a-generation investment.
Oxford United has confirmed it will robustly defend the decision alongside Cherwell District Council, and both parties have requested that the High Court expedites the case so that unnecessary delays can be minimised.
I remain firmly supportive of the new stadium project. It will secure Oxford United’s long-term future, bring significant economic benefits to the area, create jobs, improve sporting facilities and deliver substantial investment into our local communities.
The planning process has been followed. The evidence has been examined. The decision has been made democratically.
It is now time to allow that decision to move forward. #OUFC
Today we remember the men and women involved in the great crusade and the largest amphibious operation in history.
Crew of @HMSDragon took time during operations in the Arabian Sea to pay a traditional flight deck tribute to all those involved in #DDay and Operation Neptune.
U’S UPDATE: We understand that despite speculation to the contrary, Oxford Utd’s Head of Football Operations Ed Waldron is NOT about to leave the club. Waldron has key responsibilities including player recruitment and he is leading United’s work in summer transfer window. #oufc
Exclusive: Oxford United advance to sign Colchester United's Kyreece Lisbie with Peterborough United, Reading FC and an unnamed Championship club all chasing the winger's signature.
#readingfc#oufc#pufc#colu
https://t.co/gio00ZlI2V
📣We're delighted to confirm our home pre-season fixtures🤝
Our fixtures will go on sale in 2 stages!
Today at 4pm, season ticket holders will be able to purchase their season ticket place at these fixtures!
General sale of these fixtures will be 29th of May at 4pm!