Oxford United Stadium Planning Application Update
The plans to build a 16,000‑capacity stadium on land known as the Triangle, near Kidlington, include a 180‑bed hotel, restaurant, conference centre, health & wellbeing space, gym and a community plaza.
The stadium project management team have been meeting regularly with the planning department and key stakeholders, with discussions progressing well over the past few months. The additional work and modelling being undertaken, which is ongoing, will provide further clarity for the planning committee to support their decision.
With the planning submission likely to be considered in early 2025, the club are actively exploring alternative short‑term provisions for the period between the lease at the Kassam Stadium expiring in 2026 and the new stadium being ready.
The club recently announced it had secured the legally binding land lease option agreement and a community collaboration agreement. The completion of the contracts represented a significant milestone in securing Oxford United a long‑term home in the county and protecting the future of the 131‑year‑old football club.
The club’s aspirations are to build a new, modern, eco‑friendly stadium which is a significant community landmark that contributes meaningfully to the economy and society of Oxfordshire. This is a once in a generation opportunity to provide a new home for sport, entertainment, business, community, education and tourism which the whole county can be proud of.
Jonathan Clarke, Oxford United Development Director, said: “We’re fully committed to following the planning process, supporting the planning department in their review and delivering on our vision.
“We have made excellent progress recently with the signing of the lease option. Although this process took longer than originally envisaged, it has provided a platform for the club to move forward with confidence. We are now focused on obtaining the necessary planning permissions and preparing for the build.
“It is common that large‑scale developments, especially ones within a Green Belt area, require additional modelling and careful examination.
“We look forward to fulfilling all the requests for additional information and submitting further details in due course.”
The new stadium will deliver significant economic and social benefits to Oxfordshire, including the creation of new jobs, boosting tourism, improving transport links, enhancing green spaces, and supporting local charities, sports groups and schools.
The visitor experience, inclusivity and sustainability have been placed at the heart of the design. It would be the first all‑electric stadium in the UK and includes a safe standing allocation, sensory room, 130 wheelchair spaces and wellbeing gardens.
The lease option agreement includes provisions to ensure Oxford United’s right to play at the stadium is secured, along with safeguards on rent and use of facilities. The community collaboration agreement formalises the club’s commitment to social, environmental and economic benefits for the community, as outlined in the seven strategic priorities set by the council.
Images Credit: Oxford United Football Club.
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