Plans to build Oxford United’s new stadium at the Triangle site near Kidlington are facing further delays. The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government has been given more time to decide whether to “call in” the planning application for further review.

The matter must be settled by the government

The League One club hopes the multimillion-pound development will become its new home after its lease at the Kassam Stadium expires. Cherwell District Council granted planning permission on 14 August, but due to the scale of the project it was automatically referred to the government. Under the rules, the Secretary of State has 21 days to decide whether to call in the application for further scrutiny.

On 11 September, however, the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government issued a so-called holding direction to give the new minister more time. Officials stressed that this is not a signal of how the application will be decided, but rather a response to numerous requests for the government to take over the case. The delay coincides with a change at the top: following the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Steve Reed MP became the new Secretary of State.

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Oxford United’s project includes not only a stadium but also a 180-room hotel, a conference and events centre, and other facilities. The club has extended its lease at the Kassam Stadium until June 2028, giving it some breathing space while the government decides. After years of delays, fans and local politicians hope the new Secretary of State will end the uncertainty and allow the investment to move forward.

© AFL Architects / Oxford United

The Oxford United community grows increasingly frustrated

Local politicians and club representatives have voiced their frustration. Conservative councillor Liam Walker, who represents Hanborough and Hailey, noted that the ongoing uncertainty is difficult for the club, its fans and residents, but emphasised that a project of this scale must be properly assessed. He expressed hope that the pause simply allows the new minister to fully familiarise himself with the case and pointed out that Steve Reed has recently spoken of the need to accelerate national infrastructure investment — something Walker believes should include the Oxford United stadium, which has already waited long enough for a decision.

Oxford East MP Anneliese Dodds has raised the issue directly with Reed, calling for a quick resolution. In her view, Oxford United needs the go-ahead for its long-awaited stadium as soon as possible, and the government should act swiftly for the benefit of the club, fans and the local economy. Together with Banbury MP Sean Woodcock, she has sent a letter to Reed urging rapid approval of the project.

Councillor Ian Middleton, who represents Kidlington, said he does not see the pause as linked to the sudden change of minister, but rather as a sign the matter is being taken seriously. He stressed key issues that need to be considered, particularly the fact that the development would be on green-belt land and could have implications for other projects in the area. He also highlighted the need to factor in the impact on traffic and local businesses.

© AFL Architects / Oxford United