Oxford United have reacted to the latest government decision surrounding their planned future stadium.
The Championship side have been aiming to move away from their current home, The Kassam Stadium, for multiple years and have slowly made progress on a new site north of Oxford. This proposed ground has been subject to intense debate, and possible government intervention.
What Happened and Why It Matters
It has been great news for Oxford and its fans after the UK government decided not to recall the current plans for further reconsideration, meaning construction can begin straight away on the 16,000 seater ground, after Cherwell District Council approved the plans a few days prior.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Development and Levelling Up, Steve Reed MP, has the power to extend discussions on the site due to the size of the proposed project, but has opted not to. This means that the club and its backers can now break ground on their new home, which they will move into upon the end of their lease at the Kassam.
United’s proposed plans will see the club spend £130-150 million on an all-electric venue in Kidlington. It brings an end to two years of planning around the ‘Triangle’ site, with plans for a new ground elsewhere stemming a further 12 months back.
This development now means an end is in sight to Oxford United’s time at the Kassam, which has drawn much criticism from fans both locally and across the country for its location, facilities and its unusual shape having just three stands.
Reaction, Impact, and What Comes Next
Speaking to the Oxford Mail about the breakthrough from the government, Oxford United chairman Grant Ferguson was overjoyed with being able to push through their plans. He said:
“The Secretary of State’s decision to not to call in the planning application for our stadium means the club can now begin to deliver on its vision.
“On behalf of everyone at Oxford United, I would like to thank all of our supporters, along with the incredible project team who have been instrumental in getting us to this point.”
It is great news for Oxford United as they will finally be able to monetise their home ground to the fullest, having previously being a tenant to the Kassam Stadium, and fans will be able to access the new ground much more easily with a rail link to Oxford Parkway Station.
For the Kassam, the future looks much more uncertain, with the ground now losing its only tenant. Whether the current stadium is demolished or kept and begin a search for alternative uses remains to be seen.
