People with a range of learning and physical disabilities, and mental health needs use Bicester Community Support Service (BCSS) in Launton Road on a daily basis.

There’s now an opportunity to use an industrial kitchen already on site and the service would like to purchase equipment and customer facilities to make it a lunch hot spot.

The team is looking to buy tables and chairs, coffee making equipment, panini makers, and more, so they can make and serve lunches, snacks and drinks.

A JustGiving page has been created to raise funds for the equipment, licences, training and resources needed to set up the café. Once established, it is hoped the café will generate enough money to sustain itself and grow to give more people positive experiences.

Adults with physical disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health needs, and dementia regularly attend the Bicester centre and the café will help people live more independent, fulfilling lives. The café would provide experiences in additional to the meaningful activities and opportunities that improve health, build confidence, and reduce social isolation. This year the service has already taken a theatre trip to see Steps the Musical, day trips and have built a brand-new custom shed.

Councillor Rebekah Fletcher, Cabinet member for Adults, said: “This is a fantastic idea which will create a real-life work environment and experience for the people we support.

"It is through innovative ideas like this that we, and our fantastic communities, can help people build confidence, independence and social connection, a genuine sense of purpose and achievement.

“Not only will they still attend BCSS but the people we support will have a café to go to where they can genuinely participate in supporting their local community.”

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Councillor Tim Bearder became only the fourth leader of the authority since 2001 when he succeeded Councillor Liz Leffman at the Extraordinary General Meeting of the council today (May 20).

He currently represents Wheatley at County Hall and lives in the village. He grew up in Wendlebury, went to school in Bicester and has also lived in Oxford.

The former BBC journalist addressed councillors after being elected to the role. Since 2021 he has served as both Cabinet Member for Adults and Cabinet Member for Highway Management.

He said: “It is a huge honour to have been given the opportunity to serve as Leader of Oxfordshire County Council. I do not take that responsibility lightly.

“Politics matters most when it improves people’s everyday lives.

“I came into politics because I believe in fairness. Fairness between communities. Fairness between generations and fairness in the opportunities people have to live healthy, secure and fulfilling lives.

“I also believe deeply that Oxfordshire can lead the way — on climate action, on sustainable transport, on strong public services and on building a county where prosperity is shared more fairly.

“Difficult problems are not solved through blame or simplistic slogans. They require thought, honesty, evidence-based policy and the courage to make difficult decisions. That is the kind of leadership I will strive to provide.

“I want us to be ambitious for Oxfordshire, but also grounded in the realities people face every day — cost of living, access to care, housing pressures, congestion, pollution and the need to protect the environment that makes this county so special.

“We are at our best when we work together — with each other, with residents and with our partners across the county.”

At the annual meeting of Oxfordshire County Council on 12 May the membership of cabinet was announced. There have been some adjustments made:

• Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of the council
• Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Resources
• Councillor Sean Gaul, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People
• Councillor Gareth Epps, Cabinet Member for Transport
• Councillor Dan Levy, Cabinet Member for Finance and Property
• Councillor Liz Leffman, Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair
• Councillor Rebekah Fletcher, Cabinet Member of Adult Social Care
• Councillor Kate Gregory, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities
• Councillor Judith Edwards, Cabinet Member for Local Government Reorganisation and Human Resources
• Councillor Laura Gordon, Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy

He has summed up the feeling of a continued sense of loss following the deaths of Firefighters Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler, and a well-known member of the public, Dave Chester. He thanks everyone for the outpourings of kindness and support shown over the last 12 months.

Please watch the chief fire officer’s video. The words he delivers are re-produced below.

Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall

As we approach one year since the heartbreaking event on 15th May 2025 at Bicester Motion, I wanted to take a moment to pay tribute to Jennie Logan, Martyn Sadler and Dave Chester.

That evening, we lost two of our friends and colleagues, Firefighters Jennie and Martyn - alongside Dave, a well‑known and valued member of the Bicester community. Their loss is something that stays with all of us.

We know how deeply cared for, loved and respected Jennie, Martyn and Dave were to everyone who knew them. 

I want to thank you, our communities, for the outpouring of kindness and support that has been shown in their honour.

The compassion shown by so many people over the last year is something we will never forget. Thank you.

In planning how the first anniversary is honoured, we’ve been speaking with the families and our firefighters at Bicester.

We ask on behalf of them and us that you respect the private arrangements in place to pay tribute to Jennie, Martyn and Dave are respected.

We know that so many people across the nation will want to show their support. I encourage you to take a moment on the 15th to quietly reflect on the tragedy that unfolded a year ago and caused the devastating loss of Jennie, Martyn and Dave. It will forever be a reminder of what we ask of our firefighters and our emergency service colleagues.

I am still so grateful to all of the emergency services who attended Bicester Motion twelve months ago; the professionalism shown by every single blue light responder was exemplary and is something we will not forget. Thank you.

Firefighters at stations across the country have been invited, through their services, to quietly mark the first-year anniversary with a minute silence, within their own fire stations, at the time of call which was 18:39 this Friday.

Alongside the loved ones for Jennie, Martyn and Dave we will also be holding a private remembrance service.

From all of us at Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service, thank you for your continued care, respect and understanding. 

We know that the families and our colleagues at Bicester Fire Station feel your support and kindness and this has been a great comfort as we continue to come to terms with our loss. 

 

Thank you.

Bicester resident Tom Bucknell has become the first person in Oxfordshire to secure a job through the county’s new Connect to Work programme.

Tom has just begun his role as a Customer Services Officer at Oxfordshire County Council, following tailored one‑to‑one support to help him back into employment.

When Tom’s contract with an NHS Foundation Trust ended, he suddenly found himself back in the job market, a process that brought added anxiety as a wheelchair user concerned about accessibility and flexible working options.

Connect to Work is a free, voluntary programme offering personalised employment support to residents with disabilities, health conditions or other barriers to work. Oxfordshire is among the first areas in England and Wales to launch it, with hundreds of residents expected to benefit over the coming years.

Tom said: “I always have to think twice about things others don’t even notice. That brings internal, mental health barriers as well as physical ones.”

Referred by the Jobcentre in Banbury, Tom joined the Connect to Work programme and was paired with Oxfordshire County Council Employment Advisor Courtney Bateman. Courtney helped him understand his strengths, explore suitable roles, tailor his applications and even accompanied him to job interviews.

Tom said: “Having someone in my corner made such a difference. When I was offered the job, I felt genuinely proud, like someone finally saw my skills.”

His first full day in the role left a lasting impact. Tom said: “I just felt amazing. I’d done it. I worked a full day, and that was really empowering,” he said.

Three weeks in, Tom is already confidently handling customer emails and supporting congestion charge permit approvals. Courtney continues to support him as he settles, describing him as consistent, resilient and highly motivated individual.

Rho Marinari, Tom’s manager at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Working with Tom and the Connect to Work team has been a really positive experience.

“The support they provided ensured Tom could step into the role with confidence, and we’ve been glad to play our part in helping him settle in.

“Having an accessible and welcoming workplace is essential for everyone, and we’re committed to doing what we can to help colleagues thrive.”

Tom added: “I can’t thank Courtney enough for everything she’s done, and I also want to thank my manager Rho and Richard Merritt for being so supportive. It’s made such a difference as I start this new chapter.”

Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Tom’s achievement is something we’re incredibly proud of.

“To see the very first person supported through Connect to Work already thriving in his new role is both inspiring and encouraging.

“This is exactly what the programme is here to do: help people facing real barriers realise their strengths and move into meaningful work. Tom’s story shows just how powerful that support can be.”

The Connect to Work initiative represents a significant investment in Oxfordshire’s communities, with over £8.3 million allocated to support delivery over the next five years.

The programme is delivered in partnership with Oxfordshire Employment, Enterprise Oxfordshire and other local organisations, forming part of the council’s wider commitment to increasing independence for residents as part of The Oxfordshire Way.

Residents can self‑refer or be referred by an organisation they already work with.

For more information or to register interest, visit the Connect to Work pages on the Oxfordshire County Council website or email connecttowork@oxfordshire.gov.uk.

ENDS

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Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet today adopted its latest movement and place plan for the area. It outlines 13 objectives and accompanying actions to create long-term transport strategy aspirations for the area.

They prioritise people walking, wheeling, cycling and using public transport over private car use. 

Bicester is a historic market town, surrounded by villages set in beautiful countryside. It is home to the world-renowned shopping destination Bicester Village and innovation at Bicester Motion.

Currently 58,700 people live in Bicester and its neighbouring villages, but this is expected to rise to 66,100 by 2030. Further growth is expected by 2050, highlighting the need to address challenges such as congestion, air quality, rural accessibility, walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure and pressure on public transport.

Councillor Judy Roberts, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action, said: “Oxfordshire is embarking upon sustainable and positive change – placing people, communities and places at the heart of this decision making.

“The movement and place plans, including one for Bicester and its surrounding villages, will be key to this. They reflect the needs and aspirations of our communities, help to protect our natural environment and deliver the homes, businesses and leisure facilities that our communities need and enjoy.”

The plan’s objectives include: 

• Creating a comprehensive walking, wheeling and cycling network that is coherent, direct, safe, comfortable and attractive by providing high-quality routes, improving lighting and surface quality, and reducing severance caused by busy roads and rail lines.
• Public transport improvements including better bus frequencies, improved interchanges and long-term rail enhancements, for example exploring the opportunity for a new station in Ardley.
• Supporting economic growth and innovation, harnessing opportunities to provide sustainable mobility and healthy living. 
• Protecting nature and the environment, with a focus on improving public spaces and strengthening community identity. 

The plan’s vision received strong support during a public consultation.

Cllr Roberts added: “This area has received several planning applications which are likely to bring enormous changes so these plans will be regularly updated to reflect this.”

There are 12 proposed movement and place plans for Oxfordshire that the council will be looking deliver over the next year or so. They will act as supporting documents to the council’s wider local transport connectivity plan, which was adopted in 2022. 

In January, cabinet approved a movement and place plan for the Science Vale area, covering Wantage and Didcot, surrounding villages and the employment sites at Culham Campus, Harwell Campus and Milton Park.

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People are playing an increasingly active role in running the Bicester Community Fridge (BCF), as it continues to reduce food waste, strengthen community connections and support residents.

Founded by Lucy Stanton, the fridge has been based at Oxfordshire County Council’s Bicester Community Support Service since October 2019. The very first collection ‒ a modest tray of bread and scones from Aldi ‒ marked the beginning of what has become a valued community asset.

Over the past six years, the fridge has welcomed families, older residents and Afghan refugees, creating a diverse and welcoming environment while preventing tonnes of surplus food from going to waste.

Open five days a week, Bicester Community Fridge supports around 150–200 families weekly, redistributing surplus food collected from supermarkets, food warehouses, events companies and the Oxford Food Hub.

As a self‑funding initiative reliant on grants, the fridge recently received support from the Cherwell Household Support Fund, enabling the purchase of air fryers, slow cookers, blankets, draught excluders and hot water bottles to help those most in need.

Caroline Powell, a long‑standing volunteer and service user, said: “Being part of the fridge makes a very positive contribution to the community. It brings together people who might never have met otherwise.

“We all appreciate the hospitality of the day centre in hosting this valuable project, and I hope this relationship continues to grow.”

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “This is a fantastic example of how communities thrive when people are given meaningful opportunities to contribute.

“The volunteers at Bicester Community Fridge, including those supported by Bicester CSS, play a vital role in supporting local people and strengthening community connections. We’re incredibly proud of what this partnership has achieved.”

The partnership with Bicester CSS has also created opportunities for meaningful volunteering. Day service users now support the fridge during its Monday and Tuesday openings ‒ setting up the space, welcoming guests, handing out food, maintaining hygiene standards and helping to tidy up.

Volunteers from the wider community (33 in total, including three Duke of Edinburgh students) support the fridge throughout the week. Any food not suitable for people is collected by residents with animals or smallholdings, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

This collaboration is breaking down barriers between different cultures, abilities and backgrounds. Volunteers and service users often describe the group as "a family", offering kindness, shared purpose and a strong sense of belonging.

Staff say the partnership has been transformative, providing meaningful responsibilities, routine and confidence‑building opportunities.

Looking ahead, the vision is to expand volunteering roles further and develop a shared café space for people supported by Bicester CSS and the wider community, creating a welcoming place where food, social connection and local support can continue to grow.

You can find out more about Bicester Community Support Service by visiting the Live Well Oxfordshire website.

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The council has indicated that it would, in principle, be prepared to provide some funding to help make it a reality, subject to alignment with its own adopted policy and wider needs and demands in Bicester.

The development of East West Rail, linking Oxford with Cambridge via Milton Keynes and Bedford, will mean the closure of Bicester London Road level crossing due to an increase in the frequency of trains passing through it, prompting the need to find alternative routes for motor vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.

On Wednesday, East West Railway Company (EWR Co) published its latest proposals for Oxford and Bicester, shaped by extensive public consultation and detailed technical design work.

Their revised underpass design now includes an underpass option which East West Rail proposes as a single-lane road that could be used by vehicles, alongside a protected active travel corridor for pedestrians and cyclists. However, they said this would be subject to securing third-party funding contributions.

The alternative bridge with lift and step only access option remains a risk. The county council considers this unacceptable and continues to argue against its inclusion as an option.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “We very much support the East West Rail project and welcome EWR Co’s introduction of an underpass option for their plans for the London Road level crossing, and we hope to be able to provide financial support for the project.

“However, other sources will be required to ensure full funding of the underpass. We will hold discussions with EWR Co and the government on how additional local funding can be raised from existing funding streams.

“We look forward to seeing the assessment work on the proposed solution and what impact it would have on the local road network. It is vital that any plans align with our own adopted policy and the wider needs and demands of Bicester.”

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The Ambassador hit the road as part of the ‘domestic roadshow’ launched by the Government earlier this year, in which Ambassadors and High Commissioners are being dispatched to meet businesses around the country to support them to expand into key growth-driving markets, such as the EU.

Over half of the UK’s total trade last year was with the EU - valued at £813 billion – and the visit marks an important step in the Government’s reset with the EU to improve economic cooperation and drive Growth as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

Ambassador Appleby met with Oxfordshire County Council Leader Liz Leffman and local businesses during a two-day tour of Oxfordshire to discuss trade and investment opportunities.

On Monday, 6 October, he toured the Bicester Motion community of world-leading automotive and aviation technology businesses, visited the FarmED regenerative agriculture centre near Chipping Norton to discuss sustainable farming and biodiversity initiatives with the North East Cotswolds Farmer Cluster, and hosted a networking reception at Blenheim Palace with representatives from businesses across Oxfordshire. 

On Tuesday, 7 October, Ambassador Appleby visited Harwell Science and Innovation Campus and The Oxford Science Park for discussions about Oxfordshire’s thriving science and technology offer, before visiting Oxford Brookes University to discuss the higher education sector. 

Cllr Liz Leffman, leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Oxfordshire is a place of national and global significance, with the power to change lives.  From world-class universities and cutting-edge science parks to our rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, Oxfordshire plays a vital role in driving innovation and economic prosperity for the region and nation.  

 “That’s why we’re committed to working with partners in the UK and abroad to unlock Oxfordshire’s full potential, supporting sustainable and inclusive growth for the county.  It has been a pleasure to welcome the ambassador and introduce him to the breadth of what Oxfordshire has to offer. We look forward to the benefits this visit will bring as we deepen our international partnerships for the mutual benefit of Oxfordshire, the UK and our global collaborators.” 

Minister for Europe Stephen Doughty said:  “Throughout the world, our Ambassadors and High Commissioners play a crucial role in connecting British businesses to global export opportunities and delivering investment, jobs and growth to our towns and cities.

“This government led the reset of our relationships with our European partners so we could strengthen the UK’s trade and investment ties with our biggest economic market, and Ambassador Appleby’s visit to Oxfordshire is one more step in that process.

“Diplomacy must always deliver for working people. That is why building partnerships between businesses and our key markets around the world is a central part of this Government’s Plan for Change.”  

 Ambassador Appleby said: “I was thrilled to be in Oxfordshire to meet with local leaders to discuss how I can help to drive overseas investment into the area and help local businesses with export opportunities. 

“So many of these innovative and excellent Oxfordshire products and services could find a market in Europe.

“Over half of the UK’s total trade last year was with the EU - valued at £813 billion. The government has reset our relationship with our European partners to improve economic cooperation. 

 “This is why we’re now hitting the road to speak directly to community leaders and businesses, so that not a single opportunity is missed to generate trade and investment wins overseas. 

 “The UK Government’s Plan for Change is making Britain the best country to do business with, and I am looking forward to supporting Oxfordshire on the international stage.”  

To date over a dozen Roadshow visits have taken place across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, helping to build international connections for local businesses.

School children at Brookside Primary School in Bicester have thrown their support behind a new initiative to reduce children’s exposure to harmful tobacco smoke.

Oxfordshire County Council’s smoke free school gates campaign aims to encourage more smoke free zones at school entrances throughout the county.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “We all know about the risks of second hand smoking. On top of that, around two thirds of smokers started as children, and young people are four times more likely to light up if they live with a smoker.

“That’s why we want to encourage initiatives such as these to help normalise healthy smoke free environments for children and young people.

“Brookside has set the standard for what can be achieved when a school community comes together to protect children’s health. We’re eager to see more schools follow their example.”

Pupils at the school were involved in researching the health risks of second-hand smoke and, with support and signage provided by the council, created educational materials for parents and carers.

The campaign will be delivered alongside national efforts including Stoptober, helping to raise awareness and support families who want to stop smoking.

James Watt, Deputy Head of Brookside Primary, said: “This has been a whole school effort. Our children took the lead in learning about the dangers of smoking and worked with staff to create a healthier school environment.

“This scheme has not only changed behaviours around the school gates but has also helped some families begin their journey towards quitting”.

The council’s free stop smoking service, Smoke Free Oxon also provides a range of support services to help residents quit, including aids, coaching and more. People can find out more by visiting Smoke Free Oxon’s website, by calling 0800 772 3673, or text QUITOXON to 66777.

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Covering more than 700 miles on foot and bike, firefighters from Scotland, Somerset and Norfolk arrived together at Bicester Fire Station on Wednesday 6 August, the home station of Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler.

Jennie and Martyn died  following a tragic fire incident at Bicester Motion on 15 May. A local businessman, Dave Chester also sadly died.

Gavin Callander and Grant Bailey, based in Glasgow, cycled 400 miles over two days, starting at Scottish Fire and Rescue HQ on Tuesday 5 August. Meanwhile, Scott Butler, from Somerset, ran an incredible 150 miles in three days from Bridgwater Fire Station, and Nick Winter, based in Great Yarmouth, completed a 170-mile cycle ride from Norfolk.

As they arrived at Bicester Fire Station, Gavin, Grant, Scott and Nick presented a flag of their respective fire and rescue services with messages of support to their colleagues in Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service.

All funds raised from their fantastic challenge will go to Fire Fighters Charity, which provides care and support to UK fire service personnel and their families, during and after service.

Gavin said the challenge is incredibly close to all of their hearts:

“Scott and Martyn started out together in Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue a few years ago, and Nick and I later joined. We were a close-knit service while we were all there and have incredible memories of our time.

“For me, this challenge is about doing our bit for a cause that means the world to us. It’s two days of real physical and mental endurance, in memory of two firefighters who paid the ultimate sacrifice. This is for their families, their friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing them.

“If taking this on helps raise money and awareness, then it’s all worth it. I’ve had support from Fire Fighters Charity during a tough time myself, so I know first-hand just how much of a lifeline they are. Knowing the money we raise could help someone else in the fire service get the help they need means everything.”

Mike Adcock, Deputy Chief Fire Officer of Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service says:

“This is a totally epic challenge, and I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Gavin, Grant, Scott and Nick for their extraordinary efforts. Their determination and compassion have not only honoured Jennie and Martyn, but reminded us all of the strength and unity within the fire and rescue community.

“We are so grateful for the support of the Fire Fighters Charity, whose work is a lifeline for so many in the fire and rescue sector. The fundraising response following the heartbreaking incident at Bicester Motion has been phenomenal. In the face of such devastation, the outpouring of togetherness and generosity has been nothing short of inspiring.”

People can support the team by visiting its fundraising webpage and  the Fire Fighters Charity.

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Firefighters and Oxfordshire County Council colleagues have been mourning the loss of Oxfordshire firefighters Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler and local businessman Dave Chester. 

They tragically died in a major incident at Bicester Motion on Thursday 15 May. Ten fire crews attended the fire having been called to the scene at 18:39 that day. You can watch Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall’s original statement from Friday, 16 May.

Two further firefighters sustained serious injuries in the incident on 15 May. Both have now been discharged from hospital.

On 10 June Thames Valley Police issued a statement saying that the scene of the Bicester Motion fire was being handed back to the business park.

Funerals

A ceremonial funeral procession for Jennie was held on Saturday 14 June and for Martyn Sadler on Thursday 31 July. A private funeral was held for Dave Chester on 8 July.

On both occasions firefighters and emergency service colleagues from Oxfordshire and further afield stood to attention lining the procession route in Bicester paying their respects. They were joined by hundreds of people from local communities in support of Jennie and Martyn’s family, friends and colleagues.

Blue light colleagues from across the nation were also invited to observe a minute’s silence at their fire stations and workplaces.

Martyn's procession made its way to St Edburg's Church where standard bearers from 40 national fire brigades flanked a path into the church grounds, standing to attention as Martyn passed through. 

Tributes and online book of condolence

Chief Fire Officer Rob MacDougall recorded a tribute to the bravery and commitment of those who have tragically lost their lives, mourning their loss and celebrating the positive impact they had on those around them. 

You can read the words of the tribute on our webpage.

Rob visited Garth Park on the evening of Tuesday 20 May and spent time reading the many tributes to Jennie Logan, Martyn Sadler and Dave Chester.

There is an online book of condolence available for those who would like to sign.

We made arrangements to ensure that the many lovely messages left with the large number of flowers from communities across the county and beyond were protected for the families of those that have died. Flowers were composted at the appropriate time.

An annual event to celebrate the role of the military took place in Oxford today (23 June) looking ahead to national Armed Forces Day on Saturday, 28 June.

Armed Forces Day is a chance for people and organisations across the country to show their support for the armed forces community – from serving troops to service families, veterans, reservists and cadets.

The armed forces flag is being raised on buildings and landmarks around the country. Oxfordshire County Council’s flag raising event was overseen by Councillor Mark Lygo, Chair of the Council, in Oxford Castle Yard.

The event involved a parade which was led by 1 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps based at Bicester. Lieutenant Colonel Ged Hennigan joined the Councillor Lygo, the Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire and the High Sherriff of Oxfordshire in raising the armed forces flag.

Military and civilian representatives were in attendance, including Oxfordshire County Council armed forces champions.

As signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant – a promise by the nation to ensure that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly – Oxfordshire County Council is proud of its strong and supportive relationship with the local armed forces community.

Councillor Lygo said: “This is the time of year when we express our sincere thanks and admiration to all military personnel and their families here in Oxfordshire, and of course to those currently serving abroad.

“We acknowledge the achievements and sacrifices of those currently serving and those who have served. Armed Forces Day and associated events are very important moments for us to give recognition and support to the armed forces based locally.”

 Oxfordshire County Council’s support to the county’s armed forces community includes:

• Hosting and supporting regular meetings of the Oxfordshire Civilian Military Partnership Board to provide a platform for partners to hear and address the needs of the armed forces community.
• Working with local health bodies to help improve access to health and dental services for armed forces families who may be disadvantaged by relocations as part of military service.
• Supporting 3,000 service pupils across 187 schools with initiatives such as the voice of the child survey, publishing the council’s service pupil promise and sharing evidence and best practice with local and national partners.
• Working closely to support military moves, such as the ongoing move of 7 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps into the county, ensuring that schools, housing, and other provisions are planned and made in advance. 
• Appointing of military champions from among elected councillors to maintain good strategic relationships with the county’s main military bases and stations.
• Affiliating the county of Oxfordshire with the Royal Navy ship HMS Diamond

More information on the work the council does to support the armed forces is available on the council’s website. 

Information about events in your area can be found on the Armed Forces Day website

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Mr David McCalium, formerly of Newbury, now Bicester, pleaded guilty to three charges of fraudulent trading, two charges of running a company while bankrupt and two charges of running a company in a name other than that on a bankruptcy order. 

He received a two years and six months’ custodial sentence and was disqualified from being a director of a company of eight years. An order of confiscation was also made, although no recoverable amounts have been identified.

Trading standards had received complaints from 12 members of the public about McCalium, who traded under Aspect Home Improvements, Home Aspect, DM Restorations and Glazing and Unique Property Developments.  

The investigation, which was supported by the National Trading Standards regional investigation team, found that considerable sums of money were paid for work ranging from replacement windows to house extensions, which were either partially completed to a poor standard or left uncompleted with the trader uncontactable. 

False statements were also made in relation to liaising with building control or other agencies, being members of trade associations and using false names. This caused the customers considerable distress and left them forced to pay out extra to get the partially completed work completed, often costing thousands of pounds.  

The customers were unaware that McCalium has been declared bankrupt and should not have been running a business.  

Councillor Jenny Hannaby, Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing and Safety: “The vast majority of Oxfordshire’s builders complete their work on time and to their customers’ satisfaction. When this is not the case and traders take money for rushed bodge jobs, then our trading standards team are here to protect residents from the actions of rogue traders. 

“These customers have been left in a stressful situation and considerably out of pocket due to the actions of Mr McCalium and in some cases has taken years to put the situation right.” 

 Lord Michael Bichard, Chair, National Trading Standards, said: “Mr McCalium’s actions have caused real harm to consumers – causing considerable distress as people were duped out of thousands of pounds – and undermined trust in honest and legitimate builders and businesses.  

“Cracking down on rogue traders like McCalium helps protect local communities and helps safeguard a level playing field for honest, law-abiding businesses. I hope this sentence sends a strong signal that these crimes will not be tolerated – and I urge local neighbourhoods to look out for each other and report any suspicious cases like this.” 

Jody Kerman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Head of Trading Standards, said: “We advise anybody who is looking for a reliable trader to always get a number of detailed quotes, check with friends and family for trusted recommendations and consider a trading standards’ approved trader, from our Buy With Confidence scheme. 

“We would also advise that customers resist calls for payment ahead of when sums are due to be paid under the agreement they have with a trader and consider what work has been achieved before paying that sum.” 

Any Oxfordshire resident that has concerns about activity of this nature should report it to trading standards via the Citizens Advice national consumer helpline 0808 223 1133. 

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In partnership with the charity Guide Dogs, Oxfordshire County Council’s sensory impairment team is delivering the sessions, bringing together people aged 14 to 25 years old from across the county, to learn things from meal preparation and budgeting to using specialist technology and how to self-advocate.

Jess Brown is the lead children’s worker from Oxfordshire County Council’s sensory impairment team and said: “Moving from childhood into adulthood can be a difficult time in anyone’s life. It’s a point where we’re learning more about ourselves and how we want to live our lives.

“For young people with vision impairment, this time of transition can be particularly challenging in a world that is designed for sighted people.

“These sessions are proving hugely valuable for the people taking part and it’s so lovely to see the steps they are taking to make new friends, learn new skills and generally grow in confidence.”

The first ‘get set for adulthood’ session took place in Bicester last month, focusing on kitchen safety. While team members from Guide Dogs and the sensory impairment team set the main targets, it was the young people who were given the power to develop the course, including incorporating how to use air fryers and how to cook on a budget.

The next session is taking place during the May half-term, where the young people will learn more about shopping and getting value for your money.

Loretta Knop, Habilitation Service Manager at Guide Dogs, said: “It is brilliant to be able to work collaboratively with Oxfordshire County Council to put on these sessions to enable the participants to develop essential life skills for adulthood.

“Having a vision impairment can make life a little trickier, but with support and the determination that these young people have shown, I can’t see anything holding them back!”

Karen Fuller, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Adult Social Care, said: “These sessions are a great example of our Oxfordshire Way in action, supporting people to live well and independently in their own community.

“By working together with organisations like Guide Dogs, we are empowering our young people to gain the skills they need to live life their way. This is never more important than when a young person moves into adulthood, and it’s brilliant to see these sessions making a difference to people’s lives.”

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Last November, Oxfordshire County Council approved an experimental traffic regulation order to allow cyclists to use the pedestrianised street for a trial period of up to 18 months.

A public consultation will be held during the first six months of the trial to enable people to give their views on how it is progressing. This could allow amendments to be made or even for the trial to be ended early.

It will also form part of the considerations about whether the scheme, which covers the area from Market Square to Bell Lane at all times of the day, is made permanent or not.

Councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: “The aim of this trial is to increase the number of cycling routes in Bicester, making it more attractive to travel by bike and reducing the reliance on private cars for local journeys.

“We realise there are, rightly, concerns about cyclists and pedestrians sharing space, and we will be monitoring and evaluating the reporting of any incidents. We will stop the trial if there are any pedestrian safety concerns that cannot be addressed suitably and promptly.

“However, evidence from other locations where similar arrangements are in place show that pedestrians are not subject to increased danger as cyclists alter their behaviour to accommodate the shared space.”

Anyone wanting to offer their feedback on the scheme once it begins can email SheepStreetETRO@oxfordshire.gov.uk or visit the council’s Let’s Talk Oxfordshire online consultation page.

As a result of an earlier consultation, the council agreed to seek permission to have Fridays, the day of Bicester Market, as an exception to the trial. This request has been approved by the Department for Transport and will begin this Friday (28 March).

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Residents in and around Bicester are being asked to share feedback on proposals to better link new cycling and walking routes between the town centre and existing and proposed residential and employment areas to the west.

Oxfordshire County Council has worked with local cycling groups to draft plans aiming to create a new two-way cycleway along the full length of Middleton Stoney Road, between Howes Lane and King’s End.

The plans also include a continuous new pavement on the south side of Middleton Stoney Road, between Whitelands Way and King’s End, along with new zebra crossings for both cyclists and pedestrians.

Councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: “I encourage people to look at the proposals and help us understand the impact they’ll have.

“More options for local journeys made by walking, wheeling or cycling helps us enjoy what’s around us unfettered by the stress of traffic queues and finding parking space. We can feel healthier and engage more easily with our local environment.

“We’d like to hear how cycling, walking and wheeling around Middleton Stoney Road works for you, and how the proposals could support that, or where they may need some changes. This will help to shape the final plans and give me a detailed picture of what matters for you when they are considered for approval.”

The proposals are for:

• A new two-way cycleway separated from motor vehicles and pedestrians along the full length of Middleton Stoney Road.
• A new pavement on the south side between Whitelands Way and King's End.
• New pedestrian/cyclist zebra crossings along the road and signalised crossings at the roundabout with Shakespeare Drive.
• Associated minor works along the road to improve safety for people walking and wheeling.
• Traffic restriction on Chalvey Road junction with Villiers Road to improve safety

Middleton Stoney Road is a key strategic route linking the centre of Bicester with existing and planned housing estates and businesses on the west of the town, and surrounding villages including Chesterton and Middleton Stoney.

The designs will follow the latest national cycling standards with cyclists separated from motor vehicles on the road for their safety and to encourage new and inexperienced cyclists of all ages and abilities.

The project is funded by the government’s Active Travel Fund as part of grants received in 2022 to improve walking and cycling in the county.

Plans are available to view and a survey can be completed on the county council’s digital engagement and consultation platform, Let’s Talk Oxfordshire. The consultation closes at 11.59pm on Tuesday 25 March 2025.  

Feedback will help inform a county council cabinet decision on whether to approve the work. Subject to approval, the proposed works would be carried out later in 2025.

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A survey is open from today (18 February 2025). Oxfordshire County Council has worked with local cycling groups to draft plans aiming to create a new cycleway together with improvements for walking and wheeling on London Road (A41) between the Launton Road junction and Rodney House Roundabout.

London Road is a key route linking the centre of Bicester with the new housing estates at Graven Hill and Wretchwick Green, the Symmetry business park, and surrounding villages including Ambrosden and Arncott.

The designs will follow the latest national cycling standards with cyclists separated from motor vehicles on the road for their safety and to encourage new and inexperienced cyclists of all ages and abilities.

Councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: “Homes, jobs and businesses will always need good access choices. Joining the dots to make it easier to get safely between key destinations in your neighbourhood is an important consideration for now and for future proofing flexible travel as the town grows.

“More options for local journeys made by walking, wheeling or cycling helps us enjoy what’s around us unfettered by the stress of traffic queues and finding parking space. We can feel healthier and engage more easily with our local environment.

“We’d like to hear how cycling, walking and wheeling around London Road works for you, and how the proposals could support that, or where they may need some changes. This will help to shape the final plans and give us a detailed picture of what matters for you when they are considered for approval.”

The proposals are for:

• A new two-way cycleway on the west and south-west side of London Road between the Ploughley Road and Launton Road junctions. The cycleway will merge with the existing layouts at the Rodney House Roundabout and the new Pioneer Roundabout.
• New pavement sections to improve directness and convenience for walking the route, assisted by new zebra crossings for both cyclists and pedestrians.
• 30mph speed limit along London Road extended to include the section south of Talisman Road up to Rodney House roundabout to further improve safety especially at the new crossing points.
• Resurfacing the existing cycle path linking to the A41.

The project is funded by the government’s Active Travel Fund as part of grants received in 2022 to improve walking and cycling in the county.

Plans are available to view and a survey can be completed on the county council’s digital engagement and consultation platform, Let’s talk Oxfordshire. The consultation closes at 11.59pm on Tuesday 18 March 2025.  

Feedback will help inform a county council cabinet decision on whether to approve the work. Subject to approval, the proposed works would be carried out later in 2025.

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On behalf of England’s Connected Heartland, Oxfordshire County Council has selected AWTG, a 5G mobile private network supplier, to install infrastructure along the route following a public procurement exercise. AWTG will begin work on the project over coming weeks.

Funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the project aims to enhance rail passenger connectivity and bring benefits to businesses and residents along the route. There will be an extension of fixed wireless broadband to rural communities and trackside business parks, and to farms to support agri-tech applications.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “This ambitious project represents a significant leap forward in improving onboard passenger connectivity, and better connecting Oxfordshire’s rural communities.

“I am optimistic it will become a blueprint to be replicated on other similar railway routes both locally and nationally.

“AWTG’s expertise will allow us to deliver the vision we share with England’s Connected Heartland partners in Buckinghamshire to pioneer a connectivity solution for passengers and be a leader in digital innovation.”

The 5G rail project aims to develop a combined revenue commercial model for delivering enhanced passenger connectivity through onboard WiFi. Train companies will also be able to offload data collected onboard their services for operational purposes.

Abbey Alidoosti, Chief Executive Officer of AWTG, said: “The opportunity to address connectivity issues through this project is incredibly exciting, it provides a blueprint on the best solution for connectivity for rail passengers and trackside communities.

“We look forward to deploying a solution that not only boosts the passenger experience but also offers invaluable support to the railway industry as a whole. The same solution that addresses digital divide and provides the much needed broadband services for trackside businesses. We are eager to see the outcomes of this initiative and its positive impact on the community and businesses.”

Councillor Martin Tett, Leader of Buckinghamshire Council, said: “We are delighted to have the first England’s Connected Heartland 5G Rail project in Buckinghamshire, which builds on the strategic investment we and other partners previously made in trackside fibre along this route.

“While 5G is often seen merely as a faster version of 4G, its potential extends far beyond that, offering significant advantages for the UK rail industry. We anticipate that once the benefits of 5G connectivity are proven, awareness and demand for 5G networks in the rail industry will grow exponentially.

“We are thrilled to be part of a collaboration that will demonstrate these benefits and provide a blueprint for replicating our project to bolster the UK economy.”

Notes

England’s Connected Heartland (ECH) brings together local authorities in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Central Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Oxfordshire with a mission to accelerate advanced wireless adoption across the region.

Co-ordinated by Oxfordshire County Council, it is creating a blueprint that can be adopted throughout ECH and beyond to benefit the whole of the UK.

About AWTG

AWTG is an end-to-end engineering services and technology solutions provider operating in telecommunications, immersive tourism, smart education, smart cities, smart retail and shopping, industry 4.0, smart health, new media, internet and other markets that employ digital technologies. AWTG’s technology solutions cover digital transformation, rapid prototyping, artificial intelligence, internet of everything and software.

Your Oxfordshire

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An electric car club pilot scheme has proved so popular that 15 vehicles are set to remain in place at more than 10 new and existing locations around the county, following the end of the 18 month trial period.

Since the pilot scheme was launched in April 2023, it has attracted over new 1,200 members, seen over 5,200 individual hiring sessions and led to more than a quarter of a million electric miles being driven.

The scheme has been coordinated by Oxfordshire County Council and is supported by Oxford City Council and Cherwell, South Oxfordshire, Vale of White Horse and West Oxfordshire district councils who have hosted the pilot vehicles in their car parks. The vehicles have been provided and operated by hire companies Co Wheels, Enterprise CarClub and Zimbl.

The success of the extended trial scheme means that car club vehicles are set to continue in the following locations:

• Abingdon – Cattle Market and West St Helen Street car parks (Co Wheels)
• Banbury – Calthorpe Street West and Windsor Street car parks (Zimbl)
• Bicester – Claremont car park (Zimbl)
• Eynsham – Back Lane car park (Co Wheels)
• Henley – Greys Road car park (Co Wheels)
• Oxford – Redbridge and Seacourt Park and Rides (Co Wheels and Zimbl)
• Wallingford – Cattlemarket car park (Co Wheels)
• Witney – Woodford Way car park (Enterprise CarClub).

New car club vehicles are also set to be introduced at these new locations:

• Chipping Norton – New Road car park (Zimbl)
• Woodstock – Hensington Road car park (Zimbl)
• Thame – Upper High Street (Co Wheels).

Councillor Pete Sudbury, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council with Responsibility for Climate Change, Environment and Future Generations, said: “The popularity of the EV car clubs has led to the continuation of the schemes in many places, meaning even more residents and businesses can try out these shared cars for themselves.

“Car clubs give people the chance to use an EV when they need one, without the expense of owning or leasing one outright. They can make it much more affordable for people who don’t drive every day and provide real-world experience of driving electric without a long-term commitment.”

It is estimated that a successful car club vehicle can take on average 20 individually owned cars – often petrol or diesel vehicles – off the road.

EVs in the scheme can be hired from £5.95 per hour, including insurance, plus 12p per electric mile.

If demand for car clubs continues and funding can be identified, then it’s likely more car club locations will be introduced within the next few years. Residents can submit locations where they would like to car clubs using Oxfordshire County Council’s EV charger and car club demand tracker.

Updated details about the EV car club pilot and where your nearest car club location is can be found on the Oxfordshire County Council website.

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Funded by Oxfordshire County Council and supported by partners including Cherwell District Council and Bicester Town Council, the project puts residents in touch with a local area coordinator who helps them to navigate the wealth of support available in the community, with a view to improving their wellbeing.

Tamsin Ireland is the new Local Area Coordinator for east Bicester and said: “Bicester has a number of amazing community and voluntary organisations, all having a hugely positive impact on their members and the people they support.

“But sometimes people struggle to know what’s available to them and how to get involved. That’s where local area coordinators come in. We take the time to really get to know people, learning more about them and empowering them to take control of their lives, make informed decisions, and build resilience.

“I would urge anyone in east Bicester who feels they would benefit from less formal, community-based support to get in touch. Together we can find something that’s right for them.”

Local people and organisations have been actively involved in the development of the programme, including the recruitment of the local area coordinator themselves, ensuring the selected person is well-suited.

A local area coordinator can meet anyone in their designated zone, which is kept deliberately small in size to enable more valuable interactions for the people involved. No referral is needed and there are no time limits or barriers to access the support.

They help people to identify and achieve their vision of a better life, often by exploring less formal solutions to any challenges or concerns they might be experiencing.

The local area coordinator can also support local groups and people who wish to start their own activities and help people get involved.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “There’s a huge range of community organisations in Oxfordshire that offer support in a variety of ways. From workshops to singing groups, there’s something for everyone and they are all valued members of our Oxfordshire Way partnership.

“But it’s sometimes difficult for people to identify exactly what’s out there and how to get involved, especially when they’re suffering from conditions such as anxiety and depression.

“Local area coordinators can help. By listening to residents and taking the time to really understand their situation, people like Tamsin can enable them to find the best solutions to the difficulties they might be facing.”

Tamsin Ireland is now available for a face to face introduction by contacting her by email at tamsin.ireland@oxfordshire.gov.uk or by calling 07745 208215

There are further plans for similar positions in Kidlington and Didcot later this year.

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For safety reasons, Oxfordshire County Council will be shutting the centres for two days – although never at the same time – to allow for deep cleaning and essential maintenance.

This includes jet washing the sites and structures, repainting lines and safety areas, as well as other general work to improve the customer experience.

The closing dates are:

• Stanford in the Vale, near Faringdon: Monday 2 and Tuesday 3 September
• Ardley, near Bicester: Thursday 5 and Friday 6 September
• Drayton, near Abingdon: Monday 9 and Tuesday 10 September
• Oakley Wood, near Wallingford: Thursday 12 and Friday 13 September
• Dix Pit, Stanton Harcourt: Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 September
• Alkerton, near Banbury: Monday 7 and Tuesday 8 October.

All closures are on quieter weekdays to minimise disruption and sites will reopen at 8am the following day.

Residents are asked to plan ahead, ideally holding onto their waste until the site reopens or, if that is not possible, visiting one of the neighbouring sites.

The deep clean for Redbridge HWRC in Oxford will be carried out later in the year and full details will be provided in due course.

More information can be found on Oxfordshire County Council’s website, including details of alternative sites during the closures.

Users are reminded that to use their free DIY waste allowance, they need to book an appointment for their visit on the council’s website.

Residents with van or trailer permits can use these at any of the HWRCs.

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The southern side of Banbury Road, from the roundabout to Lodge Close, will be closed for three months from today (Monday 22 July). The closure will be in effect for 24 hours a day, seven days a week with narrow lanes in place on the northern half of the road to manage traffic. The closure has been planned in the school summer holidays when fewer vehicles are expected on local roads. However, journeys may take longer. 

The Banbury Road will reopen to all road users at the end of October 2024. 

Councillor Judy Roberts, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Development Strategy, said: “I want to thank Bicester residents, commuters, and businesses for their patience as we reach the halfway point on this work. 

“We are now entering the busiest phase of this project and are asking people to plan their journeys in advance and follow diversion signs. The Banbury Road will reopen to all road users at the end of October.” 

During the closure, traffic towards Bicester will be diverted both ways using the ring road. Drivers should follow all diversion signs. The Fringford Road will be reopened. 

Pedestrians and cyclists will be diverted along Southwold Lane and the Banbury Road. Residents can access their properties during the closure using the vehicle and footpath diversions. Buses will be diverted using the Buckingham Road, with two new temporary bus stops provided for the 500 bus route. 

During the road closure, work will take place to: 

• create a new island on Banbury Road south 
• install a new central island adjacent to the Fringford Road and on the roundabout east and west approaches 
• complete the second half of the toucan crossing on the A4095 
• construct new drainage and footways 
• surface the Banbury Road south up to the roundabout approach splitter island

The new junction has been designed to safely increase vehicle capacity, using traffic signals, while also providing better pavements and cycle paths and safer crossings. When finished, it will help Bicester to manage the increase in traffic as new houses continue to be built in the area.  

More information

The work is fully funded by central government, with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government providing £5.5 million and £5.9m secured from the Growth Deal. 

Oxfordshire County Council is working with Galliford Try to construct these improvements. 

The signalised junction will include: 

• adding new traffic signals to each arm of the junction 
• reducing the speed limit from 40 to 30 miles per hour 
• maintaining access for drivers to turn right from Fringford Road 
• separate crossings and paths for pedestrians and cyclists at the western and southern arms of the junction 
• buffer zones between the cycle track and the carriageway along three of the junction arms

Stages of work 

Work began in February 2024 on the Fringford Road, with the removal of the existing roundabout island. Work on the B4100 northbound followed in the spring. 

When phase three finishes, work will take place on the A4095 westbound from October 2024 through to January 2025. 

Construction is scheduled to finish with road surfacing on the B4100 in January and electrical works in early February 2025. 

More information can be found online at oxfordshire.gov.uk/banburyroadroundabout. 

Oxfordshire County Council is considering allowing two-way cycling at any time in Sheep Street, from Market Square to Bell Lane, for a trial period of up to 18 months. Cycling is currently prohibited there.

The aim of the proposals is to increase the number of cycling routes in Bicester, making it more attractive to travel by bike and reducing the reliance on private cars for local journeys.

People can take part in the consultation at letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk before 31 August.

Councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: “The public’s opinion matters greatly in this process. By participating in this consultation, residents, businesses and other organisations can help us understand different perspectives, concerns and aspirations when it comes to potentially undertaking a trial allowing cyclists to use Sheep Street.

“We want to hear all views on every aspect of this proposal.”

If the trial is approved, through the implementation of an experimental traffic regulation order, an additional public consultation will be held for the first six months of operation.

This will enable people to give their views on how the trial is progressing, potentially allowing amendments to be made or ending the trial. It will also form part of the considerations about whether or not to recommend the scheme be made permanent.

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Oxfordshire County Council has invested £5 million into the Resonance Supported Homes Fund that has bought and refurbished the property, in partnership with housing provider, Golden Lane Housing.

The home is the first of five properties planned for Oxfordshire, providing person-centred housing for adults with additional needs, with four more due to open in Banbury, Bicester, Kidlington and Horspath later this year.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “This is a key part of our Oxfordshire Way vision, to support people to live well, within their own communities. Through working with partners, we are delivering a scheme that is making a real difference to adults with learning disabilities and autism, supporting them to live in their own home, with all the independence and happiness that brings.”

The six-bedroom property includes off street parking and has an enclosed back garden. It has had extensive refurbishment and includes adaptions to the kitchen and dining room to create a kitchen-diner and renovations to the garden to make it safe, accessible and manageable for all the tenants to maintain.

Four members of the new household moved in February and have been settling into their new surroundings. They have also been meeting staff from Midco Care, who will be supporting them on a daily basis. A fifth person is due to move in shortly.

Hannah, who’s 38, is one of the new tenants. Having previously lived in a shared supported housing scheme in Oxford, she’s now moved into the Witney home, which is closer to her mother and siblings.

Hannah said: “This house makes a whole lot of difference to my life at the moment. I was so happy to find it.”

The Resonance Supported Homes Fund was created in 2020 by social impact property fund manager, Resonance. It is designed to provide a solution to the acute housing shortage that leaves thousands of adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health problems struggling to access homes suitable for them that meet their needs.

The fund selects and buys the properties, which are located at the heart of local communities, so that residents are close to local amenities, such as shops and GP surgeries, good public transport and support services and networks, including friends and family.

Once purchased, each property is fully refurbished and refitted to a bespoke specification as well as having its energy efficiencies improved to help reduce tenants’ energy bills.

Daniel Brewer, CEO, Resonance, said: “Handing over this first property in Witney to Golden Lane Housing is a key milestone in the Resonance Supported Homes Fund’s ambition to provide the right housing for people with learning disabilities and autism in Oxfordshire.

“It was an absolute delight and privilege to meet some of the tenants that have recently moved into the beautiful new home that our fund has bought and refitted to meet their needs.

“Thanks to the investment from Oxfordshire County Council, and the fund’s partnership with expert housing partner, Golden Lane Housing, the fund is now making a difference to the lives of four people living in a home that is right for them, enabling them to live fulfilling lives with independence and choice.”

Once the property has been refurbished and adapted, it is transferred to a housing provider. In Oxfordshire, Golden Lane Housing has been chosen as a partner for the fund, offering specialist support to enable the new tenants to gain independence and enjoy a successful tenancy.

John Verge, CEO, Golden Lane Housing, said: “We are delighted to be working with Resonance and its Supported Homes Fund to provide quality homes that meet the need of individuals. Resonance has a long-proven ability in the housing sector of sourcing properties that are suitable for tenants and long-term operational partnerships with other housing associations.

“Golden Lane Housing has worked nationally for over 25 years providing specialist accommodation. The work Golden Lane Housing and the fund will be carrying out together, will ensure it contributes to addressing the great need for supported housing for people with learning disabilities and autistic people across Oxfordshire.”

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Following Oxfordshire County Council’s allocation last year of £1.2 million for rural public and community transport, further new buses will be launched on April 15 to connect more villages to market towns and Oxford.

Councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: “I’m really delighted to be able to back our commitment to high quality public transport with real delivery and budget, in rural areas as well as our larger towns.

“Not everyone has access to a car and so public transport is essential to help people get around for work, shopping, and socialising. We know there is a demand for bus services in these locations, which can’t be met by the commercial operators, and we are glad to be able to help fill this gap.”

The new services will all be operated by accessible minibuses from the council’s in-house fleet but will be open to all bus users.

The announcement follows the introduction in November 2023 of new bus routes to villages, which had been without public transport since 2016, and the allocation of grants worth nearly £425,000 to improve community transport in Oxfordshire last month.

The new routes are:

• 42: Abingdon to Oxford via Sunningwell, Bayworth, Boars Hill and South Hinksey (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays).
• 49: Cuddesdon and Denton to Cowley Templars Square and Oxford City Centre (Tuesdays and Thursdays; on Tuesdays via Toot Baldon and Marsh Baldon and on Thursdays via King's Copse and Cowley Tesco).
• 79: Hornton, Horley and Hanwell to Banbury Town Centre and Banbury Gateway (Thursdays only).
• 85: Goosey, Charney Bassett, Lyford, West Hanney and Denchworth to Grove and Wantage (Wednesdays only).
• 107: Oddington, Charlton-on-Otmoor, Fencott and Murcott to Bicester via Langford (Fridays only).

Timetables will be available on Traveline later this month.

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The trial features electric vehicles (EVs), which can be hired on an hourly or daily basis from district and city council owned car parks around the county. They are currently in place in Bicester, Banbury, Kidlington, Eynsham, Henley, Wallingford, Abingdon, Witney and Oxford.

The pilot has been organised by Oxfordshire County Council and supported by Oxford City Council, Cherwell, South Oxfordshire, Vale of White Horse and West Oxfordshire district councils to assess the demand. The vehicles are provided by hire companies Co Wheels, Zimbl, and Enterprise CarClub.

Councillor Pete Sudbury, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council with responsibility for Climate Change, Environment and Future Generations, said: “I’m extremely pleased to see the positive response to EV car clubs in many of the towns and villages involved in the pilot. I welcome the extension to the scheme, which will mean even more residents and businesses can try out these shared cars for themselves.

“Car clubs can play a key role in reducing carbon emissions in Oxfordshire, as well as reducing the number of individual vehicles on our roads and helping people to reduce the cost of living. If you haven’t tried them out, now’s your chance.”

Since the start of the pilot, more than 500 new members have signed up to use the EV car clubs and the vehicles have been hired over 2,000 times.

It is estimated that a successful car club vehicle can take on average 20 individually owned cars – often petrol or diesel vehicles – off the road.

The continued success of the scheme is dependent on increasing use of the vehicles in the pilot, so residents are encouraged to make use of introductory offers available and try out their local vehicle while they can.  If the vehicles continue to be well used, some of the current sites could be considered as long term locations for car club EVs, and a wider rollout could also follow in other locations. 

Eynsham car club user, Lisa Hynes, said: “We have used the Co Wheels car in Eynsham and it’s been brilliant.

“It’s right in the centre of Eynsham and has meant that we haven’t needed to buy an additional car as we can use the Co Wheels car as and when we need it. We have really enjoyed driving an electric car too.”

EV car clubs give people the chance to use an EV when they need one, without the expense of owning or leasing one outright. Car clubs can make it much more affordable for people who don’t drive every day and provide real-world experience of driving electric without a long-term commitment.

EVs in the scheme can be hired from £5.95 per hour, including insurance, plus 12p per electric mile. Residents can make use of promotions, reduced membership and driving credit offers as part of the pilot scheme.

Updated details about where your nearest car club location is, and information about promotional offers, can be found on Oxfordshire County Council’s website.

Lessons learned from the pilot will feed into a countywide car club strategy being developed by the county council later this year.

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The first stage of work will involve Fringford Road being closed, from 7 February to 11 April. Vehicles will be diverted by the B4100 using three-way traffic lights and narrow lanes. Pedestrians and cyclists will be diverted by Skimmingdish Lane, then down Buckingham Road/ the A4421 and finally turning into the A4095. 

When work is complete on Fringford Road in April, the existing roundabout island will be removed. Work will also take place on the B4100 northbound. 

Banbury Road will be closed from July to October this year and traffic towards Bicester will be diverted by the ring road. 

Work is planned to take place on the A4095 westbound from October 2024 through to January 2025. 

Construction is scheduled to finish with road surfacing on the B4100 in January and electrical works in early February 2025. 

Satellite navigation systems (SAT-NAV) will display updates on the road closures. 

More information

The pedestrian diversion from 7 February to 11 April uses an existing route with pedestrian crossings. 

The work is fully funded by central government, with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities providing £5.5 million and £5.2 million secured from the Growth Deal. 

Oxfordshire County Council is working with Galliford Try to construct these improvements. 

More information can also be found online at oxfordshire.gov.uk/banburyroadroundabout. 

For more information about this release contact Oxfordshire County Council’s communications team on 01865 323870 or email press.office@oxfordshire.gov.uk 

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Measures had already been proposed to address what had become an £11.2m shortfall after central government grant funding announcements failed to provide local government with the required finance to meet the pressures being experienced across the nation.

The proposals form part of the final budget being recommended to the council’s cabinet on 30 January, which will then be decided at the annual budget setting meeting of all 63 county councillors on 20 February.

Councillor Dan Levy, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, said: “Councils throughout the country made clear to central government through the Local Government Association and other channels that more funding was needed this year and in following years due to the high levels of pressures in areas such as social care, special educational needs and other services.

“There has been deep disappointment at the failure of government to address these issues.

“Our track record of responsible financial management means that Oxfordshire County Council has been in a more resilient position than many other authorities. However, the overall position is extremely challenging.

“This final batch of proposed measures means we are able to put forward a balanced budget but it has been a difficult process and we know this is mirrored in town and county halls throughout the land. We know that we, and local government as a whole, will continue to face difficult financial challenges in 2025/26 and beyond.

“It remains the case that our budgets for both adults and children’s social care will increase in real-terms after accounting for inflation in 2024, with investments to meet pressures outweighing savings proposals.”

What are the newly proposed measures?

• The county council has been notified that district councils have given a further improved forecast as to how much council tax will be collected in Oxfordshire. This amounts to £300,000.
• The council is able to reduce the amount it puts in contingency funding by £100,000.
• The council’s award-winning innovation hub (iHub) will move to becoming self-financing, which has created a saving of £300,000. It was launched in 2018 by the council to promote innovation in the county. This includes developing solutions on intelligent infrastructure, health, environment and mobility systems, as well as implementing projects to improve the local economy and environment for Oxfordshire’s citizens.
• A series of rises to charges for on-street parking and residents parking permits (helping cover the full costs of maintenance of controlled parking zones), This would raise £200,000 combined. 

Further detail

Detail as regards proposed on-street parking and residents parking changes:

• Abingdon: On-street parking pay and display would rise from £1.10 for one hour (8am to 6pm excluding Sundays and Bank Holidays) to £1.30. Two hours rises from £1.50 to £2.
• Oxford city centre central area (Zone 1): Street parking for one hour would rise from £6.60 to £7.60; two hours from £13.20 to £15.20. Evening parking would also rise from £6.60 to £7.60. Parking for an hour on Saturday rises from £6.60 to £7.60 and from £13.20 to £15.20 for two hours.
• Oxford city centre (Zone 2 including Jericho): Street parking for one hour would rise from £5.50 to £6.30 and for three hours from £16.50 to £19. Street parking for evenings and Sundays would rise from £5.50 to £6.30.
• Wallingford: Street parking for one and a half hours would rise from 70p to 80p.
• Residents parking permits: In Abingdon and Henley-on-Thames, a second batch of 25 visitor permits would rise from £27.50 to £31.50.
• In Oxford, business permits would rise from £44 to £50.50 for three months, £82.50 to £95 for six months and £126.50 to £145 for nine months. An annual permit would rise from £165 to £190. A change of vehicle charge will rise from £22 to £25.
• In Oxford, residents parking permits would rise from £70 to £80 for a first and second car and £140 to £161 for a third car In the Kassam Stadium area a permit would rise from £17.50 to £20.
• In Oxford a traders permit per week would rise from £27.50 to £31.50. A second batch of 25 visitor permits would rise from £27.50 to £31.50.
• In Banbury and Bicester a residents parking permit would rise from £66 to £76 with a second batch of 25 visitor permits rising from £27.50 to £31.50
• In Wantage and Wallingford a residents parking permit would rise from £100 to £110, and a second 25 visitor permits would rise from £25 to £31.50.
• Parking bay suspensions:  The charge for the suspension of a parking pay (both pay and display and non pay and display) would rise from £33 to £38.

Fire safety inspectors from Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service visited the premises in October 2020, where they found that the business owner, Miss Isabelle Taylor, had failed to ensure there was an adequate risk assessment of fire, failed to protect escape routes in case of fire, and failed to provide a working fire alarm and detection system.

The equestrian yard was operating on the ground floor and had two flats provided for staff accommodation above on the first floor.

Following a fire at the site, a fire safety audit was conducted under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and inspectors found that the premises were so dangerous that they were left with no alternative but to prohibit the use of the building for sleeping until safety measures were improved.

As, a consequence, they ordered the immediate removal of the occupants of the flats on safety grounds by use of a prohibition notice, so that it could not to be used for sleeping.

A further inspection was made of the premises in December 2022 by Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, where Miss Taylor was found to be in breach of this prohibition notice. This was due to staff still being allowed to sleep in the building, despite the prohibition notice being in place.

An investigation resulted in Miss Taylor appearing in court (2 January 2024) where she was found guilty of four charges under the fire safety legislation. She received a conditional discharge for three of the charges, with a fine imposed of £5,000 for the remaining. She was also ordered to pay a total of £4969.50 in costs.

Councillor Dr Nathan Ley, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “Our fire safety inspectors are finding an increasing number of businesses with sleeping accommodation above, where no fire safety measures have been implemented. Business owners have a legal duty to put fire safety measures in place, and as this case shows, we will not hesitate to take action to ensure the safety of occupants, residents and customers.”

Issuing of a prohibition notice restricts the use of any premises providing accommodation that do not meet the accepted standards of fire safety. Responsible persons – business owners or employers – must accept that they have a duty of care to ensure the accommodation they provide is safe and suitable.

Any businessperson or employee can seek fire safety advice by emailing fire.service@oxfordshire.gov.uk

Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service’s vision is to work every day to save and improve the lives of people across the county. For more information, visit 365alive.co.uk

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The money will be invested initially in two major 5G projects – East West Rail between Bicester and Bletchley, and Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.

The county council led the joint funding bid on behalf of nine other councils – Buckinghamshire, all Berkshire’s unitary authorities, Central Bedfordshire, and Cambridgeshire – and will now work closely with them on a 5G project called England’s Connected Heartland.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “We’re committed to working with other local authorities and partners to maximise our chances of securing investment in digital connectivity and telecoms innovation.

“Today’s announcement is testament to the benefits of such an approach, allowing us to demonstrate the benefits of 5G, making Oxfordshire and surrounding counties a heartland for sustainable economic growth.”

Sir John Whittingdale, Minister of Data and Digital Infrastructure, said: "We’re channelling millions into local areas to unlock the potential of cutting-edge 5G wireless and digital technologies, which will reshape our public services, drive economic growth and boost innovation. This new fund will give local areas from across the country the opportunity to be at the forefront of Britain’s world-leading 5G revolution.

“For instance, by using 5G for farming and creating science parks, we're not just helping local communities, but also encouraging new ideas all over the UK. This is more than just linking smartphones. It's about using powerful digital connections to transform various sectors in the economy and the public sector throughout the entire country.”

East West Rail project between Bicester and Bletchley

The rail industry in the UK is in the process of evaluating new connectivity options for both track operations and passenger access to fast reliable onboard WiFi. England’s Connected Heartland project aims to demonstrate how these requirements may be met through a pilot 5G network, which will also provide trackside communities and businesses with improved connectivity.

The project will explore how 5G can be used to improve farm productivity along the route.

Harwell Science and Innovation Campus

Oxfordshire County Council plans to create a private 5G network that covers the entire Harwell campus. It has already held discussions with several organisations on site including the European Space Agency (ESA), UK Space Agency, and the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). They are all supportive of building a 5G network.

Dr Barbara Ghinelli, Director, Innovation Clusters and Harwell Campus at UKRI-STFC, said: “We look forward to supporting the project team on the plan to build a full private 5G network across the whole of Harwell Campus, which will facilitate innovation options for our world leading clusters in energy tech, space, quantum and health tech.”

The European Space Agency’s recent work includes using satellites to deliver non-terrestrial 5G connectivity. It is one of the companies at Harwell that will be using the 5G technology.

Professor Antonio Franchi, Head of Space for the 5G and 6G Strategic Programme at the European Space Agency, Harwell Campus, said: “We are delighted with the success of this funding bid and the resulting plan to build a 5G network here at Harwell Science Park.

“We intend to further develop solutions at our 5G/6G Innovation Hub that will help to drive 5G digital transformation of the European economy, showcase UK businesses at the forefront of emerging space technologies, catalyse investment into the sector and enhance collaboration with international partners. We look forward to the role this hub may have in enhancing collaborative innovation across England’s Connected Heartland.”

Notes to editor

How 5G supports sustainable economic growth

Innovation and advanced technologies rely on a world class digital infrastructure. 5G, with faster and more reliable internet access, supports productivity across various industries on various devices. This increased productivity can lead to additional GDP growth and the creation of new jobs. Better connectivity also brings environmental benefits, such as reduced energy and natural resource consumption due to less travel and increased remote working. Clean growth means growing the national income while cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Furthermore, Internet of Things (IoT) and automation integration enhance manufacturing processes enable smart cities and support the development of emerging technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality.

The establishment of the Oxfordshire-led 5G innovation region called England’s Connected Heartland is an important part of the government’s commitment to advancing telecommunications innovation. The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s mission is to deliver stronger growth, better jobs and bold discoveries through innovation and investment in advanced technologies. The UK's telecoms networks serve as the backbone of the economy, influencing how business is conducted, accessing public services, enjoying entertainment and maintaining connectivity.

Internet of things (IoT)

Describes devices with sensors, processing ability, software and other technologies that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet or other communications networks.

Watch a short video from the government about the rollout of 5G, below:

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Following Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet’s decision to allocate £1.2 million to improve rural public and community transport, further new services will be launched this month to connect more villages back to the bus network, market towns and Oxford.

Councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: “This is more good news for bus users on top of improved services announced last month – a £1 single fare cap for Sundays in December; the imminent arrival of a new fleet of electric buses for Oxford; and the extension of our park and ride joint parking and ticketing deal.

“Many people rely on buses to get around the county, and beyond, and we’re committed to working with providers to make it as easy and reliable for them to do so.”

From Monday 6 November, the following services will begin:

• 122/123: Watlington to Reading via Nettlebed, Stoke Row, Checkendon, Rotherfield Peppard and Kidmore End. This will run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, through Red Rose Travel
• 126/127: Watlington to Thame via Lewknor, Postcombe, Tetsworth, The Miltons, Chalgrove, The Haseleys and Moreton. This will run on Tuesdays and Thursdays through Red Rose Travel.

From Monday 27 November, these services will be in operation:

• 68: Longcot, Fernham, Uffington, Kingston Lisle, Westcot, Sparsholt, Childrey and the Letcombes to Wantage and Faringdon. This will run from Monday to Saturday through Pulhams Coaches.
• 108: Forest Hill, Stanton St John, Beckley, Horton-cum-Studley, Blackthorn and Piddington to Oxford and Bicester. This will run from Monday to Saturday and is being operated by Oxford Bus Company.

Timetables will be available shortly from Traveline and individual operator websites.

Revisions to the Villager Community Bus V26 service to link Ramsden with Witney, and providing new journeys on Thursdays, began in early October. Further new services linking several villages north of Bicester and north of Banbury are anticipated to begin in February 2024.

These new services are in addition to those funded by the government through the council’s successful Bus Service Improvement Plan, including restoration of a service between Carterton and Swindon, new express peak buses from Carterton and Banbury to Oxford and improvements to other strategic inter-urban routes throughout the county.

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Mr Nevilkumar Mody, 35, a director of Haridisharn Ltd, trading as Bicester Local and Post Office in Sheep Street, Bicester, pleaded guilty and was convicted of a single offence at Oxford Magistrates Court on Monday 25 September 2023.

He was fined £400 and made to pay £160 in victim surcharge. Full costs of £2,037 were awarded to Oxfordshire County Council, which brought the prosecution.

The business sold the peach ice flavour disposable e-cigarette, sometimes known as a puff bar or vape pen, to a 15 year old test purchaser in January 2023, despite the legal age limit for the sale of e-cigarettes being 18 and over.

As well as being a director of the company and being responsible for training the shop’s staff on legal compliance with age restricted products, Mr Mody actually made the sale, himself and did not ask the test purchaser anything about their age or ask for any identification which would have shown their age.

The shop was one of several visited as part of a test purchasing operation based on information from complaints by local residents, a local councillor and the local policing team.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services and Safety, said: “E-cigarettes are one of the most effective methods of supporting someone to quit smoking. However, while e-cigarettes pose only a small fraction of the risk of traditional cigarettes, they are not risk-free products and we do not encourage young people who have never smoked before to begin using them.

“The trading standards teams will continue to make test purchases of this kind, to ensure that adequate precautions are being taken by retailers to prevent the sale of such products to children.”

Jody Kerman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Head of Trading Standards, said: “Many Oxfordshire retailers work very hard to train their staff and implement systems to prevent the sale of such items to children. The rising popularity of disposable e-cigarettes amongst teenagers makes appropriate age verification checks absolutely essential.

“Those who don’t follow the rules not only put children at risk but also gain an unfair advantage over their competitors. We will continue to respond to community concerns in this area, prioritising the health and wellbeing of residents and helping to create a level playing field for businesses to operate within.”

Further information for retailers on how to sell e-cigarettes responsibly, including details and photos of illegal products to avoid, can be found on Oxfordshire County Council’s website.

Anyone with information about the sale of illegal, disposable e-cigarettes or underage sales can report to trading standards via the national consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

More information

The sale of any kind of e-cigarette (disposable or not) to a person under the age of 18 is prohibited under Regulation 3 of The Nicotine Inhaling Products (Age of Sale and Proxy Purchasing) Regulations 2015 and an offence under section 92 (1) of The Children and Families Act 2014.

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“It became quite frustrating at times,” said Megan, who’s now 24 and lives in Bicester. “There was clearly some really good support available, but we often found it really difficult to access as it wasn’t all in one place.”

Ten years on, Megan is now working with Oxfordshire County Council after volunteering with the neurodiversity support network, to use her experiences to improve access and design services that will best meet her neurodiverse needs – a process known as co-production.

Megan continued: “The council might have lots of data but it’s nice to be able to offer my experiences. I’m more than just a number on a page – I can talk about exactly what experiences I’ve had, what services I’ve been involved with, where things can improve and where things have been really great.”

Co-production offers the opportunity for people with real life experiences to help shape, co-design and develop services by working in partnership with the county council. The aim is to strengthen services and ultimately improve the lives and experiences of those who use them.

For Marc Borja, Oxfordshire County Council’s Co-production Commissioning Officer, Megan offers a unique insight into how services are really landing on the ground.

Marc said: “We work extremely hard to make sure our services are really fit for purpose, by looking at a range of data and working with partners to understand what is needed and where.

“But unless we work with people who are accessing our services – the real experts by experience – we can make the wrong assumptions. We are always happy to work together with the people of Oxfordshire so please get in touch.

“Co-production makes services more effective for the public, more cost effective for the policy makers and more sustainable for us all.”

National co-production week runs from Monday 3 July to Sunday 9 July and celebrates the benefits of co-production, shares good practice and promotes the contribution of people who use services and carers in developing better public services.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “It is absolutely vital that we work with and listen to people who use our services, helping us to develop our programmes to provide real benefit for our residents.

“Co-production isn’t just about good engagement, it’s about working hand in hand with people who have real life experience of our programmes, making them better and more meaningful for the communities that use them.

“This co-production week I’d like to thank the residents who work with us, giving their time and dedication, helping to develop our services for those who need them most.”

If you use a service and would like to be involved in developing improvements through co-production, contact coproduction@Oxfordshire.gov.uk or find out more at oxfordshire.gov.uk/coproduction

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Oxfordshire County Council is working in partnership with the Oxford Diocesan Board of Education and Countryside Properties (Bicester) Limited to help meet the demand for local primary school places.

Nursery, foundation and key stage one pupils will use the new facilities, which are scheduled to open in September 2024. The new facilities will allow St Edburg’s CE Primary School to expand from a two-form entry to a three-form entry school operating across two sites within the Kingsmere development.

The addition of outdoor learning spaces will also mean a much stronger connection between indoor and outdoor learning, designed to assist cognitive development.

The expansion provides an opportunity to adapt the existing school building, through internal alteration, to create a dedicated site for key stage two pupils. This will improve the overall key stage two provision, providing specialist spaces for languages, IT and physical education, in preparation for pupils’ transition to secondary school.

Councillor Liz Brighouse, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Youth Services, said: “This extra capacity will have huge educational benefits for pupils at St Edburg’s CE Primary School. It is yet another exciting project from the county council, working with communities and partners on our commitment to provide first class education for Oxfordshire’s children and young people.”

Martin Leach, Director, Countryside Properties (Bicester) Limited, said: “We are delighted to have reached another key milestone at Kingsmere. The provision of new facilities for St Edburg’s CE Primary School will provide an enhanced educational offering for residents and the local community right on their doorstep.

“We look forward to working with Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford Diocesan Board of Education in the coming months, as we continue to provide much needed facilities for the local area here at Kingsmere.”

Tony Wilson, Director of Education at the Oxford Diocesan Board of Education (ODBE), said: “We are honoured to have been a partner in the realisation of this state of the art construction at one of the 285 schools that we serve across the Thames Valley.

“The new facilities will be served by air source heat pumps utilising the very latest in green energy technology. With our commitment to confronting the climate emergency, ODBE is delighted that this expansion is designed and built with sustainability as a key consideration. ODBE believes that the pupils of St Edburg’s CE Primary School will thrive and flourish in their new learning environment.”

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The two hour adults cycling with confidence training sessions  are being run by Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service and are taking place:

• 3 July, 10am - 12 noon at Didcot Fire Station
• 11 September, 10am - 12 noon, at Seacourt Park and Ride in Botley, Oxford
• 13 September, 10am - 12 noon, at Kidlington Fire Station
• 26 September, 10am - 12 noon, at Bicester Fire Station
• 17 October, 10am - 12 noon at Thame Fire Station
• 7 November, 10am - 12 noon at Redbridge Park & Ride in Oxford.

They can be booked by emailing:

roadsafety.education@Oxfordshire.gov.uk

The session is practical. Participants should come with their bike, safety helmet and appropriate clothing.

Andy Ford, from Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service’ community safety team, said: “Cycling is a great way to exercise and is an environmentally friendly form of transport. However, it is important that anyone using their bike is familiar with the Highway Code and the safety critical dos and don’ts, particularly on busy main roads and at junctions.”

 Safety advice is also available on Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s website

Cycle Safety | 365Alive including:

• Cycle at least half a metre from the kerb to avoid drains and gutters.
• Never pass nearside between traffic and the pavement especially close to junctions, particularly when there are large vehicles where the driver may not have seen you in their wing mirrors.
• Do not ride on the pavement, except where it is designated as a cycle path. Where this is provided, moderate your speed and take care when passing pedestrians and give way at junctions.
• If a road junction is busy, do not feel you have to continue cycling. You can always get off, push your bike, or walk on the pavement.
• Do not weave in and out of traffic or change direction suddenly without signalling.
• Give pedestrians priority when necessary.
• Use your bell to inform other road users of your presence. Fit a bell if your bicycle is not fitted with one.
• If you are not confident cycling in moving traffic you may want to consider further cycle training.
• Wear a cycle helmet, high-visibility clothing or accessories.

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An award-winning active travel study carried out by the University of Bristol and Oxfordshire County Council has now been published.

The qualitative study was carried out between May and October 2022 to learn more about active travel priorities – travel that involves some physical activity – and what might help people adopt more active habits. The study focused on cycling and walking for commuters and older people aged 65 to 75 living independently in Bicester and Witney.

The study received the “outstanding contribution to public health or social care research” award from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHCR) at the 2022 Thames Valley Health Research Awards last year.

Councillor Andrew Gant, Cabinet Member for Highways Management, said: “We know that road, pavement and cycle path improvements are essential to promoting active travel, but people face many other barriers to cycling and walking.

“This study provided an important opportunity for local people to explain in detail what would make a difference to them and it will help Oxfordshire County Council to improve the support we offer and the network changes we provide.”

The study looked at groups of people who had been identified as having the best opportunity to take up more active travel. Bicester and Witney were chosen because most key destinations in people’s daily travel are a walkable, or wheelable distance.

As a key element to the study, participants discussed active travel improvements for Bicester and Witney that would encourage them to walk or wheel and cycle more. 

In Bicester, these changes include improving walking, wheeling and cycling connectivity from the west of the town to Bicester centre, with an off-road shared-use footway and cycleway, better signage and reduced speed limits.

In Witney, recent works have aimed to improve walking and cycling between west and east Witney, going through the town centre. The works include wider crossings, better signage and reduced speed limits.

Other initiatives include ‘bike library’ cycle borrow schemes, free bike repairs and training, and walking and cycling groups. Further improvements in both towns will be pursued as funding becomes available.

The research study, ‘Active Travel in Oxfordshire – a qualitative study of active travel amongst commuters and older adults living in market towns’ was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Public Health Intervention Responsive Studies Teams (PHIRST) scheme.

You can read more about the study on the PHIRST website

Related news from Oxfordshire County Council:

•  Have your say on updated plans to improve walking and cycling in Witney (06.12.2022)
• £10.4 million awarded for active travel improvements in Oxfordshire (19.05.2022)
• Oxfordshire’s public health research recognised by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (03.08.2022)

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Oxfordshire County Council has secured £520,415 from the government’s Active Travel Capability Fund to invest in improving access to active travel options across the county. 

This investment will be used to deliver projects that enable more people to walk, wheel or cycle as a first choice for local transport. It will also be used to enhance high streets and improve access to work and education. 

Active Travel Minister, Jesse Norman, announced an additional £32.9 million of government funding under an Active Travel Capability Fund last week. The fund supports Active Travel England’s ambition for half of all journeys within English towns and cities to be made through walking, wheeling, or cycling by 2030. 

The funding enables the council to deliver more of its wider active travel strategy across South and Vale, Cherwell and West Oxfordshire districts. 

Ongoing reporting on shifts to active modes of travel in Oxford, Bicester, and Witney over the last two years all show increases ranging from six to 33 per cent. 

Councillor Duncan Enright, Cabinet Member for Travel and Development Strategy, said: “This is fantastic news. It will help us to support people across the county to get around quicker, easier and more safely. Our ambitions to make Oxford a champion cycling city are well advanced and we are working to improve cycling, walking and wheeling routes around the county. 

“We aim to work closely with community groups, workplaces and schools over the coming year to develop and implement positive change in people’s access to better travel options. This will, help Oxfordshire to reduce car journeys by at least a quarter by 2030 and double the numbers of journeys made by bike, on foot, or by wheelchair or scooter.” 

The active travel funding must be used for specific projects approved by the Department for Transport. The projects are expected to directly benefit more than 19,000 people locally and include: 

• Developing local cycling and walking infrastructure plans for Wantage and Grove and Thame. 
• Planning for priority cycleways identified in Banbury, Bicester, Kidlington, and Witney. 
• Extending the county council bike library scheme to enable low-income families to be able to cycle to school. 
• Sustaining use of the Street Tag walk to school app to encourage participation from more schools across the county. 
• Community cycle loan services, cycle maintenance training and community bike repair stands. 
• Implementing cycle safety support in secondary schools and workplaces. 
• Creating user-friendly local cycling and walking/wheeling maps. 

These initiatives are critical to enable people to change how they travel and to ensure that residents who face greater barriers to cycling and walking receive the support they need to become more physically active. 

Councillor Dan Levy, Oxfordshire County Council Active Travel Champion, said: “We are now focusing on our larger market towns to ensure we progress well with delivering an excellent cycling network across the county that provides joined-up routes. Through the start of this year we will be planning an inter-connected strategy ensuring that these new projects complement our existing active travel initiatives, including those we are embedding into new housing and transport delivery. These will answer local need and deliver on our wider ambitions for Oxfordshire as a leader in green travel options that are sustainable and practicable.” 

Ends 

For more information about this release contact the Oxfordshire County Council communications team on 01865 323870 or email press.office@oxfordshire.gov.uk 

Notes to editors 
• Active Travel England is an executive agency of the UK government Department for Transport. 
• Read the government’s press release on additional active travel funding. 


 

Oxfordshire County Council has given the computers to Getting Oxfordshire Online, an initiative that recycles older technology to be given to charitable organisations in the county. The donation represents a commitment to the council’s digital inclusion strategy, helping to tackle inequalities in the county.

Councillor Glynis Phillips, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, said: “I am extremely proud of the council’s IT Service team behind this donation. Improving digital inclusion is a key priority for the council, reducing inequalities and helping people to access vital support at the touch of a button, giving them the power to help themselves. It truly is the gift that keeps on giving.”

The computers were provided by the county council’s IT, Innovation and Digital Service, who ensured they were securely wiped before arranging the handover to Aspire Oxfordshire, a charity which empowers people facing homelessness, poverty and disadvantage to find employment and housing.

John Dennis, Getting Oxfordshire Online Hub Manager at Aspire, said: “Getting online can make a real difference to a person’s life, helping them to find a job, putting them in touch with organisations who can support them or just giving someone the chance to talk to family and friends. We are extremely grateful to receive these laptops which will be used by those most in need.”

The digital inclusion project, Getting Oxfordshire Online, not only refurbishes and distributes the devices but also helps people to access the data, training and the support they need to get online.

The first batch has already been distributed to homeless charities, with a further 40 earmarked for refugees arriving in the county. Charities supporting older people, families facing financial difficulties and people with additional needs are also in line to benefit.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “Digital exclusion is a real issue and can prevent vulnerable people from accessing the vital support they need. Technology moves on quickly and while these laptops are no longer suitable for the council, they have the potential to help others to get online and find the support they need.”

Ben Tuppen, who leads the Getting Oxfordshire Online programme, said: “We welcome donations from big organisations as well as members of the public. Each laptop has the potential to change a person’s life, so if you get a new device this Christmas, please consider gifting your old one to our programme.”  

Second hand laptops, tablets and phones can be donated at three Getting Oxfordshire Online hubs: Bicester Green in Bicester, Aspire in Oxford and SOFEA in Didcot.

For more information about the programme go to gettingoxfordshireonline.org and watch our short video.

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The final EV charging hub in the Park and Charge Oxfordshire project went live this month at Claremont short stay car park in Bicester.

It marks the completion of the 20th hub successfully delivered in the project and means a total of 250 EV charging points have been delivered across the county since May 2021.

Councillor Pete Sudbury, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change Delivery and Environment, said: “The reaction from Oxfordshire residents has been overwhelmingly positive, from EV drivers and prospective EV drivers alike.

“Park and Charge is enabling local people who don’t have private off-street parking to have a convenient location to charge their EVs overnight, meaning more Oxfordshire residents have the opportunity to drive electric. It’s another great reason to make sure your next vehicle is an EV.”

The hubs have been seeing very promising usage level with over 3,300 individual EV charging sessions taking place across the Park and Charge network in October alone – a 23 per cent rise in the number of charging sessions since the previous month.

The EV chargers have been designed and produced by local Bicester-based company – EZ Charge – who will operate the chargers for the next 10 years.

Oxfordshire has the highest uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country, with 32 per cent of all new vehicles sold in August being fully battery electric EVs.

The 20 Park and Charge locations, each containing between 10 and 16 EV charging points, are:

• Cattle Market and Claremont car parks in Bicester
• Curtis Place car park, Kidlington
• Windsor Street and Calthorpe Street West car parks in Banbury
• Woodford Way car park in Witney
• Black Bourton car park in Carterton
• Hensington Road car park in Woodstock
• Back Lane car park in Eynsham
• New Street car park in Chipping Norton
• Cattlemarket and Goldsmith’s Lane car parks in Wallingford
• Kings Road and Greys Road car parks in Henley
• Southern Road car park in Thame
• West St Helens, Audlett Drive and Cattle Market car parks in Abingdon
• Portway car park in Wantage
• Southampton Road car park in Faringdon.

Councillor Sue Cooper, South Oxfordshire District Council Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Nature Recovery, said: “We’ve been pleased with the interest in the EV chargers in South Oxfordshire, with one car park in Henley alone having more than 1,000 sessions in its first three months. The uptake of charging bays has been higher than expected in some car parks but in others it will take longer as habits change.

“Having plenty of spaces to charge EVs will help those thinking of buying an EV but do not have a charging point at their property.”

Councillor Sally Povolotsky, Vale of White Horse District Council Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency and Environment, said: “We’ve been very pleased to bring EV chargers to the Vale-run car parks as part of our council goals to reduce carbon emissions. There has already been a high rate of EV ownership in Oxfordshire which is why we have undertaken this long-term project investing in the infrastructure to make it easier for those to make the switch to an EV whether or not they have access to easy charging at home.

“The scheme has been designed to encourage local residents without off-street parking to switch to an EV as they can park and charge in our car parks overnight. This has already proved popular in Abingdon with nearly 20 per cent of charging sessions at West St Helen car park being done overnight.”

Councillor Andrew Prosser, Cabinet Member for Climate Change at West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Latest statistics suggest that a third of all new cars bought in Oxfordshire are now fully battery electric, which is well ahead of the rest of the UK. Projects such as Park and Charge are helping to build countywide EV infrastructure that supports this growth in EV ownership.

“We want to make it easier for EV drivers to charge up and give motorists the confidence to purchase their first electric vehicle. Maximising opportunities to grow this network will accelerate the shift to ultra-low emission transport and our pathway to net zero carbon emissions.”

Councillor Dan Sames, Cherwell District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Cleaner and Greener Communities, said: “The pioneering EV charging project has exceeded expectations and usage continues to grow. We are delighted to have been able to expand the project and create more charging hubs within Cherwell.”

The £5.4 million project was funded by grants from Innovate UK and the Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles as well as private investment from local companies Zeta and Urban Integrated. It has provided the biggest ever single boost to public EV charging infrastructure in the county.

The network of ‘fast’ EV chargers have a power rating of 7kW to 22kW, which means EV drivers can get between 25 and 75 miles of charge for every hour they charge, depending on the rate at which their vehicle can charge. These innovative chargers are highly robust and reliable, and have multiple payment options including contactless ‘tap and go’, ensuring that EV drivers can always get a charge when they need one.

More details on how to use the chargers and the Park and Charge scheme are available at www.parkandchargeoxfordshire.co.uk.

The Park and Charge project is a key part of the Oxfordshire Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy, which was named Public Sector Infrastructure Strategy of the Year at the 2022 Electric Vehicle Innovation & Excellence Awards (EVIEs).

Oxfordshire County Council is currently working with all other councils across Oxfordshire to roll out further residential EV charging hubs in car parks right across the county, pending securing appropriate funding.

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The day included visits to Grosvenor’s Barton Park development including Barton Park School and Barton Sports Pavilion, in addition to Barton Community Centre, the Elmsbrook development in Bicester and Kingsmeadow.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “I am delighted to have been able to welcome Professor Whitty to the county to showcase our health place shaping work.

“Tackling inequalities and creating healthy communities is a top priority here in Oxfordshire, so it is great to see our work receive recognition from the chief medical officer for England.”

Councillor Phil Chapman, Cherwell District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Healthy Communities, said: “Healthy place shaping is an approach which combines community activation, different models of care, and a built environment which promotes healthy life choices. The work that’s been done on this in Bicester for a number of years is leading the way in creating better outcomes for our residents, and we’ve since adopted it across the district. We are absolutely delighted to have been able to showcase this important work to the Chief Medical Officer.”

Councillor Louise Upton, Oxford City Council Cabinet Member for Health and Transport, said: “Barton Healthy New Town aims to create an innovative and sustainable way to improve health and wellbeing and was showcased at the World Health Organisation’s Healthy Cities Conference in 2018. The overall aim of is to give all residents equal opportunities to achieve good physical and mental health outcomes.

“As well as creating a built environment that has health and exercise designed in, we’ve got new ways of working with healthcare professionals, and we’re supporting the community to get more active in its own wellbeing. Grant funding has provided things like a breakfast club for children and young people and a Community Cupboard to improve food access, and there has been more targeted healthcare support for people with long-term conditions and high users of healthcare.”

Dan Leveson, executive director for Oxfordshire at the NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board, said: “Professor Whitty’s visit was welcome recognition of what we can achieve to improve people’s health and wellbeing through close working across health and care, schools, businesses, volunteers, housing developers and academics.”

Rupert Biggin, Project Director, Grosvenor Property UK said: “As master developer for Barton Park, one of the 10 NHS Healthy New Towns, we laid the groundwork for healthy living by building the infrastructure that would encourage walking, cycling and active lifestyles right at the start of the project.

“By partnering with the council to understand and respond to what local people wanted, we believe Barton Park shows how new places can create healthier and better-connected communities.”

Steve Hornblow, Head of Special Projects (North West Bicester) at A2Dominion, said: “Everyone at A2Dominion was delighted to welcome Professor Whitty to our award-winning Elmsbrook development at North West Bicester. 

“England’s chief medical officer is one of the leading figures in promoting healthier living and his visit provided a great opportunity for us to showcase our commitment to building sustainable homes for the future, and ensuring that health and wellbeing is a lasting legacy of our communities.”

Healthy place shaping in Oxfordshire aims to create sustainable, well designed and thriving communities, where all residents are supported to live healthier and happier lives. The experience and learnings generated by the Healthy New Town pilots have informed Oxfordshire’s approach to healthy place shaping and it is now being delivered across the county to reduce health inequalities.

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The exhibition is a chance to see the Stoke Lyne Roman coin hoard – the largest in Oxfordshire County Council’s collection – for the first time and learn more about how the museum acquires, catalogues and cares for them.

Councillor Jenny Hannaby, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services and Safety said: “These coins are another exciting find that helps us to discover more about the rich history of our county, and the Roman occupation of early Britain.

“As the largest hoard in our significant collection of coins and artefacts, I am delighted that we’ve been able to bring this exhibition to Bicester. If you have an interest in history and learning more, this is the exhibition for you.”

To mark the start of the exhibition, Bicester Library is also hosting a “Roman Coin Hoard Day” on 3 December featuring activities for both families and adults alike, such as lectures on the hoard, making roman helmets and a question-and-answer session with the Museum Service’s archaeology team.

Those who have made their own discoveries, no matter how small, can also bring along their hoards to Finds Liaison Officer Dr Edward Carswell, who will be on hand to help them learn more about their finds.

The hoard was discovered in September 2016 by a metal detector on farmland. The coins are all thought to date from the joint reign of Valerian and Gallienus (AD 253 to 260) to the reigns of regional emperors Tetricus I and II (AD 271 to 274) and Aurelian (AD 270-5). The hoard also contains several unofficial copies that could post-date AD 274 but cannot be closely dated.

The Bicester area in the Roman era was predominantly rural with notable tribal boundaries at Aves Ditch and the river Cherwell. Nearby Alchester is the site of an ancient Roman town.

Discover more about what’s on at Oxfordshire’s libraries and museums at: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/leisure-and-culture

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Martin Hall, trading as KC Hall and Sons, of Piddington, Bicester, was found guilty of 11 offences, after a two-day trial at Oxford Magistrate’s Court, following a prosecution brought by Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards.   

Hall, aged 39, was found guilty of illegally moving cattle, without conducting important pre-movement TB testing, and failing to report cattle movements within three days. He also failed to keep records of pig movements. In addition, Hall was also found guilty of moving livestock, without being an authorised transporter. 

The offences occurred between January 2020 and March 2021 and continued even after Hall had been warned by both trading standards and the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

Jody Kerman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Head of Trading Standards, said: “As the most rural county in the south-east of England, an uncontrolled animal disease outbreak would have hugely damaging impact on people’s lives and on our local economy. While we have some of the best farmers in the business in Oxfordshire, the trading standards team will not hesitate to tackle those who put the health and wellbeing of residents at risk.

“Rules regarding animal movement and testing requirements are there for all our benefits, designed to ensure integrity of the food chain and to prevent the spread of animal diseases. A failure to follow them not only increases the risk of disease being spread from area to area and prevents the ability to trace where our food has come from, but also leads to unfair competition, putting good farmers and their businesses at risk.”

District Judge Rana said that Hall’s evidence was “contradictory and unreliable” and was told in an attempt “to evade responsibility”. The judge said that the prosecution’s investigation was “meticulous”.

Hall was sentenced to 200 hours of unpaid work and ordered to pay a total of £9,085 in fines and costs.

Your Oxfordshire

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Gabrielle, from Bicester, said: “I was delighted to win the competition and hope people will enjoy reading my story as much as I enjoyed writing it. I love taking characters in new directions and seasoning dark themes with a spark of humour and humanity.”

The winner in the young adult section was Izzy Borg with her story “The Secret Tree” about a magical tree which grows from a seed that has the power to change everything and helps people lighten the burdens that they carry with them. It creates a wonderful feeling of people coming together to work as a community.

Izzy, aged 15 and from Abingdon, said: “As someone who aspires to be an author, I was so excited to discover that my story won the competition! I was inspired to write "The Secret Tree" after an interesting dream I had. Seeing it published will be a surreal experience for me. I just hope that everyone enjoys reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.”

Meanwhile the winner in the children’s section was Lacie-Mae Mitchell with “Getting Grandad Better”.

In the story Mae and her grandad are best friends and have had some amazing adventures together. So what will Mae do when she hears that he is ill and in hospital? This is the story of how Mae, with her brilliant backpack full of gadgets, sets out on her super scooter to find her grandad to help him get better. Mae’s strength, determination and compassion shines through as she embarks on her mission. And in the end she might just need a touch of magic to save the day.

Lacie-Mae, aged 9 and from Oxford, said: “I am really excited to win the story competition, my story means a lot to me because I wrote it when my grandad was poorly and he’s my best friend. It’s great that I can share it with other people. I am really happy.”

Councillor Jenny Hannaby, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services and Safety, said: “The judging panel enjoyed reading and discussing the entries from many talented writers. The standard of this year’s stories was especially high. The winners should be extremely proud of their achievements.”

Further information:

To find out why these stories are outstanding, borrow them from: https://oxfordshire.overdrive.com/

For all free eBook, eAudio and digital resources go to: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/libraries

Contact: librarydigitalservices@oxfordshire.gov.uk

The closure of the road will allow final preparations to take place before construction begins on the new junction. The improved junction will include new pedestrian crossings and resurfaced shared-use footpaths and cycleways, as well as traffic lights for motorists. The work is being carried out to ensure the road can cope with future traffic demands.

Ploughley Road will be closed where it meets with the A41 and the closure will prevent entry and exit at that point onto either the A41 or Ploughley Road. The closure will be in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Travellers can expect the following:

• Diversion via Ambrosden and Blackthorn Road onto the B4011 and then onto the A41 for travellers going south towards Ambrosden along the open section of Ploughley Road.
• Diversion onto the B4011, then onto Blackthorn Road and finally onto Ploughley Road for travellers on the A41 going towards Ploughley Road.
• Temporary traffic lights situated on the A41 where Ploughley Road meets the A41.
• The suspension of the Symmetry Park bus stop on Ploughley Road and the temporary relocation of the Symmetry Park bus stop on the A41 further along the A41 and identified by temporary bus stop signs on the pavements.

Walkers and cyclists will have access through the road closure along the existing Ploughley Road footpath to access Symmetry Park and the relocated bus stops.

Vehicles will continue to have access to Ambrosden from the east via the B4011. The villages of Blackthorn, Merton, Upper Arncott and Lower Arncott all remains accessible via the A41 and B4011.

Bill Cotton, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Environment and Place, said: “These junction improvements are crucial to keeping traffic moving in this busy part of Bicester, and will provide better provision for cyclists and pedestrians too.

“We have been preparing for the construction by investigating the site and clearing vegetation, and now need to close the junction so the remaining site clearance can take place safely and we can begin construction in the summer.

“We will keep delays and changes to journeys to a minimum, and I would encourage people to plan journeys in advance, check our website for full details of what to expect, and consider walking, cycling, or using public transport where possible.

I am grateful to residents and businesses for their patience while we make these improvements.”

When finished, the improved junction will include:

• banning turning left into Ploughley Road from the A41
• banning turning right out of Ploughley Road onto the A41
• a single lane accommodating the A41 eastbound for vehicles going ahead
• a pedestrian crossing to the east of the junction
• increased shared-use footpath/cycleway provisions
• kerb realignment
• introduction of a new junction with traffic lights
• introduction of new toucan crossings (allowing for pedestrian and cycle use)
• resurfacing / new footpath construction.

For more information about this release contact the Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council communications team on 01865 323870 or email press.office@oxfordshire.gov.uk

Notes to editors

• For more details about the scheme visit https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/ploughleyroad

The two schemes have re-allocated road space to cyclists and pedestrians and measures are either permanent or have the scope to become permanent. The work has led to the creation of an attractive environment that will make it easier for residents, workers and visitors in Bicester and Witney to walk and cycle.

OxLEP secured £1.4 million of investment for the project from the government’s Local Growth Fund. The project has been delivered by Oxfordshire County Council. Residents will also benefit from reduced levels of air pollution.

Councillor Duncan Enright, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Travel and Development Strategy, said: “Our historic and beautiful market towns of Witney and Bicester have grown in recent years and will continue to see an increase in employment opportunities and housing.

“It is great to see this investment as a start to create healthier, cleaner and safer travel options, which will also help combat the climate emergency. We must continue to build new footpaths and cycle routes to serve these towns.”

Nigel Tipple, OxLEP Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to learn that work has completed on these schemes, benefitting both businesses and residents alike, as well as supporting a shift towards cleaner travel.

“As the local enterprise partnership for Oxfordshire, we continue to play a vitally important role moving forward, securing investment that enables and unlocks new opportunities for our many businesses and communities right across the county.”

New measures in Bicester

Off-road pedestrian and cycle facilities and reduced traffic speeds will encourage those who might have previously used a car to walk or cycle to get into town. The route stretches from the eastern end of Middleton Stoney Road, through to Oxford Road/Kings End and Causeway.

New measures in Witney

The improved cycling facilities follows the already existing cycle route through Witney and connects onward to the main Witney to Oxford cycle route via the A40. It will also combine with proposed improvements in western Witney that together provide a continuous east to west route across the whole town.

Following the installation of the first park and charge EV hub at Bicester’s Cattle Market car park in May, the locations of the remaining 19 sites have been announced. Work started earlier this month and is due to be completed by March 2022.

The park and charge scheme allows residents without off-street parking to park for free overnight and charge up using a ‘fast’ 7 - 22kw EV charging point. The chargers will also provide much needed battery top-ups to commuters and visitors during the daytime.

The project is being delivered by a consortium of partners including Oxfordshire County Council, University of Oxford, Urban Integrated UK, and Bicester firm Zeta Lighting which is running the EV charging service under the trading name EZ-Charge. Cherwell, West Oxfordshire, South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse District Councils are also supporting the scheme and hosting the EV charging hubs.

Councillor Pete Sudbury, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change Delivery and Environment, said: “Many councillors have already had residents who don't have off-street parking asking about charging EVs, and we at the county council know we need to accelerate different solutions to that problem. Park and charge is a key part of the Oxfordshire EV strategy, helping people to move away from using diesel and petrol vehicles.”

The locations set to benefit from park and charge hubs, each containing between 10 and 16 EV charging points, are:

• Claremont car park, Bicester
• Curtis Place car park, Kidlington
• Windsor Street and Calthorpe Street West car parks in Banbury
• Woodford Way car park in Witney
• Black Bourton car park in Carterton
• Hensington Road car park, Woodstock
• Back Lane car park, Eynsham
• New Street car park, Chipping Norton
• Cattlemarket and Goldsmiths Lane car parks in Wallingford
• Kings Road and Greys Road car parks in Henley
• Southern Road car park, Thame
• West St Helens, Audlett Drive and Cattle Market car parks in Abingdon
• Portway car park in Wantage
• Southampton Road car park in Faringdon.

Councillor Sue Cooper, South Oxfordshire District Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Nature Recovery, said: “This is great news for residents as they will have access to 62 new chargers across the district. This could be the difference to those living in Thame, Wallingford and Henley, to make the switch to EV ownership knowing they have easy access to charging points. Being part of this project also shows the council’s determination to take action to tackle the climate emergency, which we are prioritising as part of our corporate plan.”

Councillor Catherine Webber, Vale of White Horse District Council Cabinet member for the Environment and Climate Emergency, said: “We are delighted that we can accommodate so many EV charging points across the Vale in our car parks. It should really help those wishing to switch to EVs but who live in town centres such as Abingdon, Faringdon and Wantage and have on-street parking which can make it difficult to access charging. More chargers should mean more people can make the switch to cleaner travel.”

Councillor Dan Sames, Cherwell District Council’s Lead Member for Clean and Green, said: “The pioneering electric vehicle charging project has exceeded expectations and usage continues to grow. We are delighted to be able to expand the project and create more charging hubs within Cherwell. The added bonus is that we are using home grown technology developed by a Bicester-based company.”

Councillor David Harvey, Cabinet Member for Climate Change at West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “With transport emissions being the largest contributor to greenhouse gases and air pollution in the district, moving to electric vehicles is a hugely important step in reaching our local and national net zero targets. The positive news is that recent statistics suggest that one in six cars now sold have a plug. We are delighted to be a partner in the park and charge Oxfordshire project, which will see more EV charging points installed across the county and here in West Oxfordshire, making it even easier for residents and business to make the switch to ultra-low emission vehicles.”

It is predicted that by 2030, one in five cars on Oxfordshire’s roads will be an EV, according to data modelling by the University of Oxford.

The £5.4 million programme is among the first of its kind in the UK and is being funded by the Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles through Innovate UK and the government’s On-Street Residential Charging Scheme.

Transport Minister Trudy Harrison said: “Providing accessible and reliable charging infrastructure is fundamental in our mission to achieve net-zero. I am delighted Oxfordshire County Council has received funding through our £20m On-Street Residential Chargepoint scheme and I hope it gives the area a boost to go green and to make it easier for drivers to make the important switch to electric.”

More details about the scheme are available on the Park and Charge website.

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The music groups are aimed at children who have been playing an instrument for at least a term and up to grade 5 and who are looking to develop their skills and performance with other players of similar ages. They will offer a fun, safe supportive atmosphere where children can make new friends and improve their playing by performing with others.

The 90-minute Saturday music centre sessions are available through school term times from 18 September and are available in Bicester, Oxford, Didcot, Thame and Witney.

Councillor Neil Fawcett, Cabinet Member for Community Services and Safety, said: “Culture plays a very important part in the lives our communities and this is especially true for our children. After the restrictions we’ve had to adapt to through the pandemic, the resumption of the music group sessions is a very welcome part of our commitment to the cultural life of children in the county.

“Evidence has found that learning music is best when you play with other people - it's more fun, and you make faster progress - come along to play in a band or group with children the same age and standard and have fun playing your instrument with others.”

Music centre instructors will offer expert tuition to allow the children in the sessions to develop their musical skills by playing as a group in an orchestral style. All of our instructors are DBS checked and risk assessments and safety precautions are being taken to reduce the risks of COVID-19 transmission.

Booking lessons is easy; parents can visit the council’s webpage, select the nearest venue and reserve a place. The groups will run on an ongoing basis through school terms. Participating children will need to bring their own instruments to the sessions.

The sessions will run each Saturday from 9am until 10.30am.

The new sessions come after school choirs and bands have not been able to rehearse together for more than a year, and children learning to play an instrument had to rely on remote instruction from their teachers.

The 100 per cent electric bus is coming to Bicester on the morning of Tuesday 7 September, before travelling to Oxford in the afternoon. The tour will be showcasing local innovators and solution creators, capturing inspiring carbon stories as it goes.

Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council and Cherwell District Council are hosting the events, at the Rose Hill community centre in Oxford and Bicester’s Eco-Business Centre. Participants can book to attend the events in person or view them online through a livestream.

Councillor Pete Sudbury, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change Delivery and Environment, said: “Effective action to address the climate emergency is at the heart of our work. Not only have we set ourselves ambitious carbon emission targets to lead by example, speeding up the process of cutting emissions wherever we can, but, much more importantly, we have put climate and environment impacts at the core of our strategic thinking, especially around transport and growth. We are also accelerating our work mapping immediate climate risks from extreme weather and ensure that our disaster planning is up to the task of keeping our citizens safe.

“The world needs to come together at COP26 to tackle climate change and we hope the people of Oxfordshire can help to inspire action in others by showcasing the work that is being done here when the zero carbon bus visits on 7 September. We need large-scale action, fast.”

At the events, Oxfordshire’s businesses and other organisations can take part in carbon reduction workshops and get practical net zero advice. The workshops will be provided by Planet Mark – a leading sustainability and net zero certification group – and forms part of the UN-backed Race to Zero and Together for Our Planet campaigns.

Tom Hayes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Green Transport and Zero Carbon Oxford at Oxford City Council, and Chair of the Zero Carbon Oxford Partnership, said: “The climate crisis didn’t go away during the pandemic. The science is clear: our warming planet is requiring us to respond right here, right now. Every citizen and business has a chance to understand what they can do to heal the planet, help each other, and protect lives. Everyone can find out how taking action isn’t as big, scary, and expensive as it might seem – indeed, it can bring about a better, cheaper, and happier way of life.”

Councillor Barry Wood, Leader of Cherwell District Council, said: “The COP26 summit later this year will hopefully concentrate the minds of the world on the importance of tackling climate change globally. At a local level, Cherwell District Council has recognised the climate emergency and is committed to getting to net zero carbon, both as a council and as a district, by 2030. The visit of the zero carbon tour bus to Bicester’s innovative Eco-Business Centre will be a chance to showcase some of the great work that is already being done here – by councils, businesses and community groups – as well as to learn from other organisations about better ways of reducing emissions.”

August’s hard-hitting Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report showed just how serious the climate crisis really is, stating: “It is unequivocal that human influence has warmed the atmosphere, oceans and land.”

Businesses and organisations in Oxfordshire, and across the UK, must therefore be encouraged to take action now to reduce their carbon emissions and help create a healthier planet and society.

Steve Malkin, founder and CEO of Planet Mark, said: “We are delighted to be collaborating with Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council and Cherwell District Council on this zero carbon tour flagship event as part of the Together For Our Planet campaign in the build-up to COP26. We look forward to gathering in person and online with the Oxfordshire community to talk about how all businesses and organisations, no matter their size, can contribute to the fight against climate change by committing to net zero carbon. Through the critical Race to Zero campaign we can all play a part in our planet’s future”.

The events will empower local firms and their employees to become part of a greater national effort to protect our environment by demystifying what is needed to achieve net zero. It will also highlight the good work many companies are already doing to address their carbon output.

Local topics and organisations being showcased at the Oxfordshire events include:

• Bicester’s Elmsbrook Eco Town
• The Park and Charge electric vehicle programme
• Bicester Green, the community-based reuse and repair organisation
• The concept and features of the Bicester Eco-Business Centre itself
• Low Energy Oxfordshire and the Low Carbon Hub
• Oxfordshire Greentech, the business network for a low carbon future
• Pedal & Post on transport matters
• Good Food Oxfordshire on sustainable food.

The scheduled bus stops on 7 September are part of Planet Mark’s zero carbon tour, which will see the fully electric powered carbon battle bus visit 30 towns and cities across the UK. The tour began in Cambridge and will finish in Glasgow for COP26.

Businesses, community groups and members of the public can sign up for tickets or to view the live streaming to the 7 September events at Oxford or Bicester online through Eventbrite.

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School Streets aim to improve road safety to help boost cycling and walking and improve air quality. Oxfordshire County Council has been working with Sustrans, a walking and cycling charity, to implement nine School Street trials across the county. The pilot scheme trialled restricting vehicle traffic using experimental traffic regulation orders (ETRO) at drop-off and pick-up times during term-time.

Five hundred and eighteen residents and parents and a further 112 pupils completed surveys about their experience of their local School Street. Of these, 59 per cent of those parents and residents said they supported the School Streets, 27 per cent did not and the remaining 21 per cent weren’t sure or supported with modification. Sixty per cent of pupils who completed a survey said they felt the road outside their school felt safer or much safer during the School Streets trial, 30 per cent were unsure and 9 per cent thought it was less safe or much less safe than before.

Councillor Mark Lygo, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Equality, said: “We know that without safer streets, many children and their parents will not have the confidence to cycle or walk. I’d like to thank Sustrans alongside the many volunteers and school staff that have contributed to the School Streets trials across Oxfordshire. Valuable things have been learned from the trials, which we hope to develop for the longer term to help encourage cycle journeys by children and their families whilst helping to reduce traffic.”

Sarah Leeming, Head of Delivery at Sustrans, said: “It’s been amazing to see whole school communities get behind the School Street trials – the support from headteachers and volunteers has been fantastic. Pupils, parents and residents reported that the area outside the school gates felt safer. I hope that the successful outcome of the trials will provide confidence for local leaders to make the case for more School Streets across the county.” 

Since March 2021, nine primary schools have adapted the road outside their gates for safe walking and cycling to school while limiting the motorised traffic – reducing traffic volumes to just essential access for a six-week trial.

Schools that took part in the six-week trials were:

• St Christopher’s School (Temple Cowley, Oxford)
• East Oxford School (Cowley, Oxford)
• Windmill School (Headington)
• Bure Park School (Bicester)
• St Edburg’s School (Bicester)
• Tower Hill School (Witney)
• Larkrise School (Florence Park, Oxford)
• St Nicolas School (Abingdon)
• St Ebbes School (south Oxford)

Windmill, St Christopher’s, Larkrise, St Nicolas and St Ebbes primary schools have decided to continue with their School Street based on the success of the initial trial. Each will collaborate with the county council to work within the ETRO to carry on reducing motor traffic at school drop off and pick up times. The remaining schools will continue to be offered support to look at alternative measures for traffic calming, reducing problem parking and improving both air quality and the surroundings outside their school to make it safer and more appealing to walk and cycle.

The council hopes to continue with School Street trials to address parking and safety issues around schools. The trials also depend on the availability of volunteers to marshal the scheme. If your school is interested in taking part in a future scheme or you’d like to become to volunteer, please email to register your interest.

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The £5.2 million Park and Charge Oxfordshire programme is among the first of its kind in the UK and is being delivered by a consortium of local partners including Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council. The Bicester site is the first of 24 council-owned car parks to have an EV charging hub installed this year under the scheme.

Councillor Pete Sudbury, Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Climate Change Delivery and Environment, said: “Interest in electric vehicle ownership is increasing in the county, but one factor holding people back is the inability to easily charge them outside their home, with about 35 per cent of residents having no access to off-street parking. Park and Charge Oxfordshire offers an alternative solution by allowing residents to park for free overnight in council-owned car parks, while giving access to top of the range electric charging points.

“Oxfordshire County Council is committed to going carbon neutral as an authority by 2030 and helping the county to go zero-carbon by 2050 – if not sooner. Innovative schemes like this one will help create the infrastructure that will make it easier for people to make changes to their lifestyles.”

Motorists can park for free overnight and charge up using one of the 12 new ‘fast’ 7-22kw EV charging points, which will also provide much-needed battery top-ups to commuters and visitors during the daytime.

Councillor Dan Sames, Cherwell District Council’s Lead Member for Clean and Green, said: "Bicester is the ideal place to pilot the Park and Charge Oxfordshire scheme. As a garden town, it is home to a number of innovative green tech companies developing cutting edge, sustainable solutions to the climate emergency. It is only by working together, with businesses and residents, that we will be able to hit our ambitious goal of being zero carbon as a district by 2030. Creating a good electrical charging infrastructure is an essential part of that strategy.”

Supporting the creation of green infrastructure, using low-carbon, energy positive technology is a core principle of the Bicester Garden Town project, with Bicester firm Zeta developing a state of the art charger for the scheme.

Zeta is leading the Park and Charge project and will also be running the EV charging service on behalf of the councils under the trading name EZ-Charge. Built with ease of use and reliability in mind, the chargers can be operated by contactless payment, making it simple for EV drivers to ‘tap and go’, with no membership required.

EZ-Charge CEO, Phil Shadbolt, OBE, said: “We are really proud and excited to see our innovative EV chargers finally go live to the public this week – having designed and manufactured them in our Bicester factory, it’s a big moment for us! We hope that the public have a fantastic experience charging in the new Park and Charge hubs, and that having so many reliable and easy to use chargers here in Oxfordshire encourages more residents to make the shift to EV this year.”

A series of events will take place in Cattle Market car park between 7 - 12 June to introduce residents to the scheme and provide EV test drive opportunities. See www.parkandchargeoxfordshire.co.uk for full details.

By 2025, an estimated 25,000 battery electric vehicles will be driven on Oxfordshire’s roads. To meet with this demand, a further 23 car parks have been selected for the project across Cherwell, West Oxfordshire, South Oxfordshire and the Vale of the White Horse. These will be rolled out later this year.

The Park and Charge Oxfordshire project has been awarded funding from Innovate UK as part of the government’s investment in British engineering to transform electric charging infrastructure. Urban Integrated UK, the University of Oxford, West Oxfordshire District Council, South Oxfordshire District Council and the Vale of the White Horse District Council are also all supporting the scheme.