Last year, Oxfordshire County Council commissioned SLC Rail to prepare a strategic outline case (SOC) for the new station. An SOC is the first stage in the Department for Transport’s business case process for projects such as developing new railway stations. 

The SOC estimates that the station could attract up to around 1,400 passengers a day and generate economic benefits subject to the station location and the routes and services being offered. It concluded there is a robust foundation for progressing the Wantage & Grove station scheme further.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “This strategic outline case report has shown what we and many others believed to be the case – that Wantage and Grove is ripe for rail investment and justifies our calls for a station.

“Improving rail services will be a key factor in achieving the ambitious targets we have set for Oxfordshire in our local transport and connectivity plan. Wantage and Grove, with its links to the Science Vale area and growing population, is a prime location for the transformative impact of better public transport.

“Our local communities and businesses across the region need fast, regular and reliable transport options to support the people, our economic centres and climate change objectives. We look forward to working with partners to move this scheme forward to the next stage.”

The SOC also highlighted challenges including train service provision, complex infrastructure and the impact of Thames Water’s proposals for a large reservoir nearby. Furthermore, Network Rail has recently published its concerns that the Swindon-Didcot section of the Great Western Main Line is ‘likely congested infrastructure’ which adds to the station scheme’s complexity.

The council is continuing to engage with Thames Water to ensure their White Horse Reservoir proposals do not prevent delivery of a new Wantage & Grove station and to identify whether there can be station location and relevant infrastructure opportunities associated with their scheme.

The council is continuing to work with the rail industry to assess and understand wider capacity and operational issues on the Great Western Main Line and how these could affect or support the feasibility of a new Wantage & Grove station, including its train service, site location and commercial viability options. This work is anticipated to be completed in spring 2027 and will inform the council’s decision on committing to the next business case stage.

Andy Holding, founder of the Wantage & Grove Station Supporters Group, said: “I would like to thank everyone involved with their dedicated hard work, support and commitment with the reopening of Wantage & Grove Station and their continued support to reopen the station.

“We must keep pushing for the reopening of Wantage and Grove Station, especially with the continuing growth in the area with the population and businesses being attracted to the area.

“The station could become one of the busiest in Oxfordshire and the return on investment is beneficial to wider economy. It could help reduce congestion into Oxford, and there’s the potential for intercity services too.”

Oxfordshire County Council is leading on the promotion of the station and will be working closely with Network Rail, Great Western Railways (GWR) and South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse district councils to progress any plans.

A Wantage & Grove station was initially opened in 1846 but has seen no trains since 1964.

Proposals for the new station featured in Oxfordshire County Council’s OxRail 2040: Plan for Rail, which was adopted last November. On Tuesday, its cabinet approved £20 million of investment in Oxfordshire’s rail system linked to the delivery of the plan.

The SOC and other rail-related documents will be published this month on the council’s new rail webpage: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/transport-and-travel/local-transport-and-connectivity-plan/rail

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After the successful partnership working that led to the publication of the local nature recovery strategy (LNRS), Oxfordshire County Council is now continuing its work with the Oxfordshire Local Nature Partnership (OLNP).

The OLNP is launching the first of Oxfordshire’s strategic nature projects – a growing portfolio of the county’s most ambitious nature recovery initiatives, now live on the OLNP’s website. It will include 15 projects, with these six already promoted and more to come:

• Black poplar project to recover Britain’s rarest tree species back to floodplains in Oxfordshire.
• Cotswolds Savannah project: a large-scale chalk grassland and mosaic habitat restoration project on 2,000 hectares.
• Evenlode landscape recovery project restoring habitats, soil health, and waterways. Led by farmers without sacrificing food production.
• Thames Valley wildflower meadow restoration project in Eynsham, including the acquisition of a new piece of land.
• Ock and Thame landscape recovery project, including benefits for people, food, farming, and nature.
• Reconnecting Bernwood Otmoor and the Ray project.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “The selected projects are built to last, with trusted partnerships, and plans to sustain their impacts well beyond any single funding cycle. Together, the projects span a significant area of Oxfordshire and represent a shared vision for nature recovery across the county, helping to deliver the LNRS’s strategic vision.

“Publishing these projects is just the first step. We will continue working with and through the OLNP to help these projects unlock the specific delivery funding and investments that they need.”

Each project has been assessed for its strong alignment with the LNRS, which the council published in November 2025, and its potential to deliver lasting, landscape-scale change. The projects include key actions to connect habitats across the county, support the recovery of priority species, and build greater local resilience in the face of increasingly extreme weather events.

Beyond nature recovery, the strategic projects each offer a variety of key wider benefits for people and place – cleaner water supplies, greater flood resilience, more opportunities for communities to connect with nature, and improvements for health, wellbeing and local economies.

Given that these projects are at different stages and different scales, the right kind of support will vary.

For some, philanthropic or grant funding will be the right fit. For others, public sources such as agri-environment payments or woodland creation grants may be more appropriate. As projects mature, opportunities through emerging nature markets are also expected to open up.

Over the coming months the OLNP and its members, including the council, will be promoting the portfolio more widely and connecting projects with the funders and partners best placed to support them.

Looking further ahead, the OLNP hopes to make it easier for individuals and businesses to contribute directly to the projects that matter most to them, through a crowdfunding-style approach – so that everyone with a stake in Oxfordshire's landscapes can play a part in their recovery.

For now, the public is invited to explore the projects, share them widely, and get in touch to help create a greener and more resilient Oxfordshire.

People can see the projects and get in touch with them directly through the OLNP’s website.

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Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet today adopted the West Oxfordshire Lowlands Movement and Place (MAP) Plan which sets out 15 objectives and 114 accompanying actions to create a long-term transport strategy for the area.

This is the third MAP plan the council has adopted. These plans will influence movement and place schemes and help to secure funding. 

The plan prioritises walking, wheeling, cycling and using public transport but also recognises that some people will need to use private cars. It aims to enhance connectivity between homes, jobs, services and amenities while creating healthier, safer and more attractive places for people to live, work and visit.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “For the West Oxfordshire area, including Witney and Carterton, this attention is essential and overdue. Since the closure of the railway to Witney in 1970, the people living along the Windrush valley have been subject to inadequate options for getting about.

“We are investing and making the plans for the future that the area urgently needs, including progressing a mass rapid transit study but also looking for short-term changes to provide better transport options.”

The West Oxfordshire Lowlands is home to around 87,000 people. It is a largely rural area, benefiting from close connectivity to the Cotswolds National Landscape, but is also home to a range of employment sites including RAF Brize Norton, the UK’s largest RAF base, business parks, industrial estates and commercial centres across Witney, Carterton and the surrounding settlements. The area is also a key tourism destination for Oxfordshire.

Around 16 per cent of residents in the area commute to Oxford for work and so improving links between Oxford and other key destinations will be critical.

The plan’s objectives include:

• delivering a comprehensive, comfortable, direct, safe, coherent and inclusive walking, wheeling and cycling network
• ensuring new developments deliver comprehensive on wheeling and cycling provision
• creating a network of transport hubs to support seamless, integrated and convenient travel
• enhancing and expanding bus services to provide a more frequent, reliable and integrated bus network
• working alongside partners to improve rail services and infrastructure.

There are 12 proposed MAP plans for Oxfordshire that the council will be looking deliver – the West Oxfordshire Lowlands one is the third to be adopted, following the Science Vale and the Bicester area earlier this year.

Cllr Epps added: “We are embarking upon sustainable and positive change – placing people, communities and places at the heart of this. The movement and place plans are 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.”

They will act as supporting documents to the council’s wider local transport connectivity plan, which was adopted in 2022.

Each will be reviewed regularly to reflect ongoing changes within the area.

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The package includes:

• Free parking for up to 16 hours per day at Oxford’s five park and ride sites.
• £1 single bus tickets to and from their workplaces in Oxford.

All staff working at NHS sites, schools, nurseries and early years settings in Oxford, including teaching, clinical, administration, catering and facilities management staff, can apply for the scheme.

Eligible staff will receive a link from their employer inviting them to apply.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Cabinet Member for Transport at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Our NHS staff and education professionals provide essential services that people rely on every day.

“We are pleased to be using income from the temporary congestion charge to support them with the cost of travelling to work, while also encouraging more people to choose park and ride and bus travel.

“These benefits are part of our commitment to investing income from the scheme into measures that help reduce congestion in Oxford and improve travel in and around the city.”

Luke Marion, Managing Director of Oxford Bus Company, said: “The temporary congestion charge was a success in reducing traffic on Oxford’s roads and it’s essential that the funds raised support worthwhile initiatives to help encourage modal shift towards more sustainable travel.

“We’ve worked closely with Oxfordshire County Council to provide these benefits for NHS and school staff, and we’re delighted they will extend to all staff working at NHS sites, schools and nurseries.

“These staff are the backbone of our communities, and we look forward to welcoming them to our services, supporting more people in travelling sustainably in our city.”

Martin Gibbon, Managing Director of Stagecoach West & Oxford Tube, said: “We know that NHS staff and those working in schools and early years settings play a vital role in supporting Oxford’s communities every day, and we're pleased to be part of this initiative. By making bus travel more affordable, we're helping more people access a convenient, reliable and sustainable way to get to work.”

"The £1 fare offer, alongside Oxford's park and ride network, provides a great-value travel option for staff working across the city. We look forward to welcoming more healthcare and education workers on board and helping them leave the car at home for more of their journeys."

Those eligible can apply online using their work email address and will receive a travel card to obtain the £1 single tickets. Free parking at the park and ride sites can be accessed by the RingGo app, or by calling 0203 046 0010 if you don’t have a smartphone.

The offers are expected to be available for around eight months and will be reviewed during that time.

The investment forms part of a wider programme of measures funded through the temporary congestion charge. A £3 combined park and ride ticket was launched in August and covers return travel for up five people of any age and 16 hours of parking. Hospital express services from three park and ride sites are expected to start in early 2027.

Notes to editors

• A multi-million pound temporary congestion charge investment plan was agreed by Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet on 19 May 2026.
• Oxford’s temporary congestion charge was in operation from 29 October 2025 to 27 September 2026.
• Income raised by the temporary congestion charge is ring-fenced for development and administration of the scheme and transport improvements in the county.
• The temporary congestion charge was replaced by Oxford’s traffic filter trial on 28 September 2026.

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This follows employee engagement work, and a 13 week public consultation that took place between October 2025 and January 2026.

The recommendations are designed to ensure that fire and rescue resources are located where they can best meet current and future needs across the county.

Rob MacDougall, Oxfordshire County Council’s fire and rescue service’s Chief Fire Officer, said: “Our aim is to provide a more sustainable service for the future, improve emergency response times, strengthen community safety and ensure resources are located where they can have greatest impact and benefit.

“We listened carefully to communities and colleagues during the consultation. I’m extremely grateful for everyone’s contribution, helping us to refine and develop these recommendations.”

A key part of the proposals is the redistribution of fulltime staff to crew fire stations during daytime periods in Bicester, Chipping Norton, Faringdon, Witney and Henley.

These fire stations would have fulltime firefighters based there during the day, providing a more consistent and reliable emergency response when the service is typically at its busiest.

Having fulltime firefighters based in these locations during the day would also increase ability to carry out prevention, protection and wider community safety activities such as safe and well visits.

The recommendations, if approved, would also retain two fire engines in Oxford at Rewley Road fire station.

Councillor Neil Fawcett , Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: "These proposals are about making sure Oxfordshire has a fire and rescue service that is ready for the future and able to meet the needs of our communities.

“This includes adapting to risks associated with climate change such as wildfires. I’m confident what is being recommended will mean that crews are even better positioned to deal with a range of environmental challenges.

"The proposals have been shaped by what we've heard from residents, partners and our firefighters.

"I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to take part in the recent consultation; your feedback has helped us develop and improve these plans.”

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That thought stayed with them over the following decade, temporarily paused while they saved to buy a house and fulfilled their travel bug, but always there.

Then, on 21 February 2025, a date etched in their memories forever (see image below), they carried Posy through the front door and into their west Oxfordshire home. The dream was finally achieved, they had officially adopted a child.

With National Adoption Week now nearly upon us (19 - 25 October) the couple are sharing their story to encourage others to consider adopting.

Rachel describes Posy as “the light of our life.”

She explains: “This beautiful two year old adopted daughter has filled a spot in our hearts that we didn’t know existed, a perfect family fit. Smiley, confident, bubbly and definitely mischievous, always with a twinkle in her eye.”

Posy became part of Rachel’s and Dave’s life through the early permanence adoption programme, which gives babies and young children the opportunity to move in with a stable family at the earliest possible stage, reducing the number of moves between homes they might otherwise experience.

Approved adopters initially look after a specific child as foster carers and then, if the court approves the adoption plan, they can adopt the child themselves.

Rachel said: “Early permanence has given us the most beautiful gift; we've bonded with Posy in a way we never thought possible, and in such a short space of time.

“We took each day as it came, loved being foster carers but also longing for the moment we could officially and permanently become mum and dad, and we quickly reached that magical moment… Posy is now our adopted daughter.”

Posy wants to copy mum and dad and even at the age of two shares Dave’s passion for Formula One.

Dave said: “I switch to children’s TV channels for Posy; however, her protests force my hand on race day if she realises I’d been watching F1. Thank you, an extra unexpected gift through adoption, a daughter who, like me, is a petrol head.”

Rachel doesn’t lose out through, Posy feels equally comfortable in the kitchen, helping mum bake cakes, chocolate chip cookies being her favourite both in preparation and consumption; their toddler has a sweet tooth.

Early permanence adoption also means the couple are able to experience the joys of watching their daughter grow from being a baby. They remember fondly her first word “doggy” – a reference to Winston, their pet cockapoo – along with the boundless energy Posy displays running around the garden, normally only pausing when distracted by fish in their pond.

Rachel said: “The lead up to adopting involves a lot of paperwork and checks by Adopt Thames Valley, you’d expect that. However, their team was so supportive in guiding us through the process, and continues to be there when needed.

“Dave and I would go through the same process again in a heartbeat, because the joy at the end of it is almost indescribable; knowing Posy is permanently part of our family and that we’ll have that fulfilling role as mum and dad in helping her reach for the sky and achieve her dreams.”

Adopt Thames Valley, the regional adoption agency hosted by Oxfordshire County Council, is urgently seeking more adopters like Rachel and Dave.

Councillor Sean Gaul, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Young People’s Services, said: “Adoption isn't about being perfect or extravagant milestones; it’s providing a warm and loving home. Being there for a child during ordinary, everyday routines like nursery, family meals, bedtime chats and – just like Rachel and Dave in years to come – the school run and eventually preparing for adulthood.

“For any child who has experienced early upheaval or temporary care, these simple daily moments mean everything.”

Statistics show that children in England spend an average of 646 days waiting for a permanent home, nearly two years, and for a young child, that is a huge proportion of their life. In Oxfordshire, children spend an average of 537 days waiting for a permanent home.

Residents from all backgrounds who want to find out more about becoming an adopter can call 0800 731 0171 for an initial, no obligation conversation or visit Adopt Thames Valley’s website.

Notes

For child safeguarding reasons, we are unable to provide specific details for which town Rachel and Dave live in, or their surname. It has also been necessary to give their adopted child a pseudonym.

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Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet will be asked to authorise funding allocations to help deliver OxRail 2040, its ambitious plan to improve rail transport and connectivity across Oxfordshire and the wider region over the next 15 years.

The funding includes contributions towards:

• An Oxfordshire Metro: creating an integrated transport network that brings together rail, bus, walking and cycling in a better co-ordinated and seamless user-centred travel offer.
• The delivery of the Cowley Branch Line, including new stations at Oxford Cowley and Oxford Littlemore
• Three other proposed new stations at Begbroke, Ardley, and Wantage & Grove to support growth.
• Continuing studies with industry partners to deliver more overhead wiring and introduce new battery-electric passenger trains across the county
• Installing an underpass at London Road in Bicester, linked to the East West Rail project and the need to remove the existing level crossing.

The money is expected to come from a variety of sources, including enterprise zone grant funding, East West Rail ‘works in kind’ funding, and section 106 contributions from developers.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “We welcome the work and industry engagement that has gone in so far, which is helping to turn the OxRail 2040: Plan for Rail vision into reality. I look forward to discussing the paper at cabinet.”

Following the completion of Network Rail’s installation of a new railway bridge and redesigned road layout at Oxford Station last month, attention will now turn to what further measures are required to enable the station to cope with growing passenger numbers, improve its mobility links and upgrade its appearance and facilities.

The council is planning to allocate £1.5m towards a £3m project to improve safety and the customer experience at the station’s eastern concourse. The government and Great Western Railway are expected to fund the rest.

The planned £20m investment will build on the £1m allocated by the council in its 2025 - 26 budget for rail development activity. This funding has helped leverage wider investment in Oxfordshire’s rail network, improve active travel access to stations, progress station enhancement programmes and develop business cases that assess the environmental, economic and community benefits of rail investment.

OxRail 2040: Plan for Rail, which was approved by the council in November 2025, was extensively consulted on and has driven the funding priorities.

The council’s cabinet will meet on 20 October to discuss the latest recommendations.

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The council has been asking government to provide the evidence and analysis that informed its minded-to decision in July to create three unitary councils across this area. In the absence of a response, the county council has now formally issued a pre-action protocol letter that provides the legal basis for requesting the evidence and documents underpinning the government’s decision-making.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, shares his thoughts in the video above.

In September, the government announced a pause to review its minded-to decisions on LGR. The government is yet to update on the scope or timetable for this. The county council remains ready to engage constructively with the government on the review.

Its priority remains to secure future local government arrangements that protect vital services, are financially sustainable and deliver the best outcome for its communities.

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Oxfordshire County Council is working on plans to build a modern HWRC next to the Bicester Park and Ride site by 2030 – subject to consultations and planning permission.

Planning permission for Ardley HWRC ends on 30 December 2026, although a planning application is expected later this month seeking an extension through to March 2031.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “Ardley HWRC is more than 40 years old and no longer meets the standards expected of a modern recycling centre.

“With the lease due to expire, we have an opportunity to plan a new facility, closer to population centres in Bicester and Kidlington and accessible from major roads.

“As well as providing up-to-date recycling facilities, the new centre will be home to a new re-use facility – something residents have been requesting for a long time."

The preferred access point would be a new junction off Vendee Drive.

“Residents and other interested parties will have opportunities to comment on the proposals as they are developed,” added Cllr Gordon. “A programme of public consultation will support the planning application, and we will keep people informed as the scheme progresses.”

The estimated cost of the new HWRC would be around £6 million and the site is planned to include a reuse shop where suitable items can be sold.

The wider project would be designed to deliver a 20 per cent biodiversity net gain, with habitats managed and maintained for years afterwards, in accordance with national requirements.

The council provides seven recycling centres around the county for Oxfordshire residents to bring household waste. The proposal would maintain this level of service.

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Spirit Bar Ltd, which operates Thirst Bar in Park End Street, Oxford, pleaded guilty to a single offence under the Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Act 2002 at Reading Magistrates’ Court on 2 October 2026.

The prosecution followed an investigation by Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards team, which examined social media content published by the business over several years.

The company was ordered to pay fines, costs and surcharges totalling £6,949.16.

Officers identified numerous Facebook and Instagram posts featuring waterpipes, references to shisha prices and promotional content associated with the venue’s shisha garden. The evidence included photographs, videos, hashtags and images showing shisha-related signage and pricing.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “The law is clear. Tobacco advertising has been prohibited for many years because of the known harm caused by tobacco products.

“Businesses must ensure their websites, social media accounts and promotional material comply with the law. This includes content promoting waterpipe tobacco, commonly known as shisha.”

During the investigation, the company admitted that the social media posts were intended to promote the venue and attract customers. It also acknowledged using shisha-related hashtags and imagery across its social media platforms. The adverts remained online for weeks after officers brought them to the attention of one of the directors.

Davina Walkin, Oxfordshire County Council’s Trading Standards Operations Manager, added: “Trading standards will continue to take action when businesses unlawfully promote tobacco products. This prosecution forms part of our ongoing work to reduce the availability and promotion of tobacco products and protect public health across the county.”

The Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Act 2002 prohibits businesses from publishing tobacco advertisements where the purpose or effect is to promote tobacco products.

More information

• Spirit Bar Ltd operates Thirst Bar, 7-8 Park End Street, Oxford.
• On 12 January 2026, following an application by Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards team, an Oxford City Council licensing subcommittee reviewed the premises licence for Thirst Bar because of concerns about the operation of a shisha business at the premises. The licence was suspended until 23 January 2026, and additional conditions were imposed, including a ban on the supply of waterpipe tobacco.
• On 24 July 2026, Sami Shridi, who operated the shisha business at the venue, pleaded guilty to offences relating to non-compliant waterpipe tobacco products discovered during a trading standards inspection. He was ordered to pay £2,333 in fines and costs.

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The public consultation is being run jointly by Oxfordshire County Council, Oxfordshire Care Partnership and The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJ). It is considering the future of residential care at the two sites, including whether the care homes should close. No decisions have been made.

People are being encouraged to respond before the consultation closes on 21 October and to make sure their views help inform the recommendations that will be considered by the council’s cabinet at a public meeting on 1 December.

The residents of both care homes and their families remain at the centre of the process. They are being supported throughout, including residents who pay for their own care.

The council’s digital engagement and consultation platform, Let’s talk Oxfordshire, includes frequently asked questions that address some of the points already raised during the consultation.

The responses cover care provision in the surrounding communities, the future use of the buildings and the context of the proposals.

Karen Fuller, Director of Adult Social Services, said: “No decisions have been made. I encourage everyone with an interest in the future of Henry Cornish Care Centre or Townsend House to respond while there is still time and make sure their views are heard.

“The residents of these two care homes and their families are our main priority. We would also encourage employees and members of the community to have their say by taking part in the public consultation and sharing their views directly with the council.

“We understand that there are some concerns in the surrounding communities, and we want to hear as many viewpoints as possible.”

There are two separate consultations running in parallel, one for each care home. They can be found on Let’s talk Oxfordshire.

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Two men connected with a Cowley Road vape shop have pleaded guilty to illegal tobacco and nicotine offences following an operation by Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards team.

Employee Farzad Ali Karimy, 28, of Temple Street, Oxford, and owner Yasin Mohammed, 43, of Mulgrove Street, Stoke-on-Trent, appeared at court on Friday 2 October after smuggled and counterfeit cigarettes and non-compliant nicotine pouches were discovered at Dubai Shop on Cowley Road during an inspection on 28 September 2025.

The inspection followed an undercover purchase of a packet of smuggled Marlboro Gold cigarettes for £8.

Officers discovered a quantity of illicit tobacco products in a black bin liner concealed behind the counter and non-compliant nicotine pouches displayed on the shelving.

In total, officers seized 112 packs of cigarettes, three packs of hand-rolling tobacco, four packs of waterpipe tobacco and more than 100 packs of nicotine pouches.

Subsequent examination confirmed a number of the tobacco products were also counterfeit, including Richmond and Lambert & Butler branded cigarettes and Amber Leaf hand rolling tobacco. The investigation also established that excise duty of £1,218.85 had been evaded.

In court, Farzad Ali Karimy pleaded guilty to all offences. He was ordered to pay nearly £900 in fines and costs.

Yasin Mohammed also pleaded guilty to all offences. Sentencing was adjourned and he will appear at court again on 27 November.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “The sale of illegal tobacco undermines legitimate businesses, deprives the public purse of vital revenue and can expose consumers to products that have not been subject to the safeguards required by UK law.

“This prosecution sends a clear message that Oxfordshire County Council will continue to take robust action against businesses and individuals involved in the illegal tobacco trade.”

The court also heard that Mr Mohammed had previously been subject to enforcement action elsewhere in relation to tobacco offences, including the seizure of 18,000 illegal cigarettes from his shop in Bangor in December 2022.

Davina Walkin, Oxfordshire County Council’s Trading Standards Operations Manager, added: “Illegal tobacco is not a victimless crime. The illicit market fuels wider criminality, makes tobacco products more accessible and affordable to children, and undermines efforts to reduce smoking-related harm.

“We will continue to respond to intelligence from the public and work with partner agencies to target those who seek to profit from the illegal tobacco trade.”

Anyone with information about the illegal sale of tobacco, nicotine or related products can report it anonymously by calling 0300 999 6 999 or by visiting www.stop-illegal-tobacco.co.uk.

More information

Dubai Shop continues to trade under different ownership.

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Oxfordshire County Council’s response to national education reform for children and young people with SEND was submitted to the Department for Education in June 2026.

This followed publication nationally of the schools white paper ‘every child achieving and thriving’ and the SEND consultation ‘putting children and young people first.’

Councillor Sean Gaul, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Young People’s Services, said: “Every child deserves an opportunity to thrive, and our plan sets out how we will deliver even better support for children and young people with SEND in their schools and closer to their homes.

“More educational psychologists and therapists will be recruited to improve access to support through a new ‘experts at hand’ offer, inclusion support bases in mainstream schools will be created, and local support services will work through locality based teams.”

The reform plan has been supported by £4.9m investment from central government for ‘experts at hand and local authority SEND transformation’ and to support the partner organisations in implementing its ambitions over the next three years.

The government’s approval means Oxfordshire will receive a high needs stability grant which will significantly reduce the current deficit in the dedicated schools grant.

Almost every local council in England faces a special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) high needs deficit because the cost for support has vastly outstripped the funding provided by central government.

Factors across the country, not just in Oxfordshire, contributing to these deficits include increased demand for education, health and care plans (EHCPs), and a lack of funding for inclusive mainstream and state special school capacity, forcing councils to rely on costly independent and specialist placements.

Support for children with SEND is supported through a local area partnership, which includes Oxfordshire County Council; NHS Thames Valley Integrated Care Board (formerly NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board); Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust; Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Oxfordshire Parent Carer Forum.

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Since the closure of the original library, a temporary one has been provided at the Oxfordshire Museum.

Under new plans, work will begin to create a fresh, new modern library, which will provide a welcoming community space for residents.

Oxfordshire County Council and West Oxfordshire District Council will look to form a partnership of local stakeholders to inform and support the project. They will also look to engage and consult the wider community in the process making sure local needs are at the heart of future plans.

In a joint statement, Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, and Councillor Andy Graham, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “We are delighted to announce that following a recent site visit, we have agreed to combine our efforts and accelerate plans for a new library and community hub for the residents of Woodstock on the former Hensington Road library site.

“Since the library closed in 2018 due to structural issues, the cleared site has remained behind fencing for far too long. While the temporary library at the Oxfordshire Museum has continued to provide an important service since December 2018, its location and capacity inevitably limit what can be offered to residents.

“Whilst a number of studies have already explored the potential of the site, we are clear that Woodstock deserves a modern, future ready library that not only meets changing needs but also has the potential to bring together a wider range of community services under one roof.

“To drive this project forward, we have asked senior officers to set-up a working-group, which we will co-chair to move as quickly as possible through feasibility, design, funding, planning and building of this exciting new hub.

“Woodstock residents have been incredibly patient during this period of uncertainty, and we will ensure they are central to the overall vision and delivery.

“There is significant work ahead and important challenges to overcome, but as councils working together with Blenheim Palace (who currently own the old police station) – we are making our intent clear.

“This represents an exciting, innovative and sustainable future for Woodstock.”

The news forms part of an ongoing project to update Oxfordshire’s libraries, with a number of other local communities already benefitting from upgrades to modernise and improve accessibility.

This is helping to provide communities with a welcoming, accessible community hub where people can meet, access services, take part in activities and feel connected.

Find out more about Oxfordshire’s libraries have to offer by visiting Oxfordshire County Council’s website.

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The Oxford Greenways project proposes a network of 18 routes extending around Oxford and connecting communities within approximately eight miles of the city. These will be a combination of existing, upgraded and new routes. By making active travel safer, easier and more attractive, the network will improve access to jobs, education, services, public transport and leisure, while supporting healthier lifestyles and helping to reduce congestion.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Transport, said: "The Oxford Greenways masterplan is a bold and exciting vision for active travel in and around Oxford.

"High-quality, connected routes will help more people make sustainable journeys, reach opportunities and lead healthier lives.

“Delivering this long-term programme will require councils, communities, developers, landowners and funding partners to work together. The shared plan will guide future investment and delivery.”

Councillor Anna Railton, Oxford City Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning and Zero Carbon Oxford, said: "The Oxford Greenways masterplan is a fantastic piece of work, aiming to transform how current and future residents outside the city can get into Oxford by walking and cycling.

“As Oxford grows this network, it will be crucial to giving people safe, sustainable and accessible options for travelling around the county."

Professor Mark E Smith, Oxford University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Planning and Resources, said: “The University keenly supports the Oxford Greenways masterplan, which will help create a better, more liveable city for everyone. We are committed to helping our staff and students commute and move around Oxford in healthy, sustainable ways wherever possible, and look forward to playing our part in delivering this transformative upgrade to the green travel links between the city and surrounding communities.”

Developed over several years, the masterplan draws on technical analysis, route assessments and feedback from residents, parish councils and stakeholder organisations.

Routes will include traffic-free sections, segregated paths alongside roads and quieter on-road links. They will connect Oxford with destinations including Woodstock, Kidlington, Wheatley, Berinsfield, Abingdon, Cumnor, Wootton, Eynsham and other nearby communities. The masterplan provides a framework for incorporating active travel infrastructure into future growth and development across the wider Oxford area.

The network is expected to be delivered in stages, funded through a combination of government and council investment, developer contributions and partnership working.

To view the masterplan and learn more: oxfordshire.gov.uk/oxfordgreenways

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People who smoke in Oxfordshire are being encouraged to take part in Stoptober and make use of free local support, as the county prepares for a national change designed to help protect future generations from the harms caused by smoking.

From 1 January 2027, it will be illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009. The age of sale will then rise by one year every year, creating the UK’s first smokefree generation.

The latest data estimates that around 7.5 per cent of adults in Oxfordshire smoked in 2024.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “While Oxfordshire’s smoking rates remain below the national average, around 50,000 adults smoke. We would like to support them to quit, just as 2,000 people did last year in the county.

“Smoking is one of the biggest causes of preventable illness, but quitting is not always easy and no one should feel they have to do it alone. Stoptober is a positive opportunity for anyone who smokes to try stopping, with free, confidential and practical support available through Smokefree Oxon.

“Evidence indicates that most smokers take up the habit before the age of 20. This new law will help to prevent that. By helping people to quit now and stopping children from being sold tobacco in the future, we can support a healthier, fairer Oxfordshire.”

The smokefree generation policy is expected to protect around four million young people nationally from tobacco within the next five years.

The change builds on work already taking place across Oxfordshire to help children and young people grow up in healthier environments. This includes Smokefree School Gates, Smokefree Sidelines and INTENT, a school-based programme to prevent smoking and vaping. These initiatives support families, schools and community groups to reduce children’s exposure to smoking and vaping in everyday settings.

Alongside prevention and stop smoking support, the council’s trading standards team continues to take action against the illegal sale of tobacco, vapes and other nicotine products.

Free and confidential help is available from Smokefree Oxon, including up to 12 weeks of specialist support, nicotine replacement products and stop smoking medicines. Find out more by calling 0800 772 3673, texting QUITOXON to 66677 or emailing smokefreeoxon.s4h@nhs.net.

Support now includes Allen Carr’s Easyway (ACE), a free stop smoking service funded by Oxfordshire County Council and available to residents and people who work in the county. It offers a single group seminar, delivered in person or online. The drug-free, evidence-based approach focuses on changing how people think about smoking, rather than relying on medication or willpower. Availability changes regularly, but people can join a waiting list and will be contacted when places become available.

Anyone who suspects illegal tobacco or vape sales, including sales to underage customers or of counterfeit products, can report their concerns to trading standards through the Citizens Advice consumer service.

Reports can be made by calling 0808 223 1133 or online through the Citizens Advice reporting service. Information provided helps local enforcement teams protect communities and tackle illegal trade.

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A nationally recognised quality mark has highlighted the Oxfordshire Museum as one of the UK and Ireland’s leading places for heritage learning.

The Oxfordshire County Council-run museum, in Woodstock, has been awarded the Sandford Award for the quality of its heritage learning programme. This includes curriculum linked workshops for schools, as well as informal learning opportunities for families and visitors.

The award is the UK and Ireland’s leading quality mark for heritage learning and recognises sites that offer engaging, inspiring and inclusive learning experiences. Independently assessed, it celebrates high-quality education programmes at heritage sites.

The Oxfordshire Museum is listed among the 2026 Sandford Award recipients by the Heritage Education Trust.

The award is valid until September 2031 and will be presented at a ceremony at Kensington Palace on 17 November.

Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “This is fantastic recognition for the Oxfordshire Museum and the team who work so hard to make heritage learning engaging, accessible and meaningful for children, young people and families.

“Learning outside the classroom can bring history and local heritage to life in a way that stays with people. We are proud that the museum’s education programme has been recognised nationally and look forward to welcoming even more schools and visitors to Woodstock.”

The Friends of the Oxfordshire Museum provided financial support for the museum’s application.

Edward Dowler, Chair of Trustees, Friends of the Oxfordshire Museum, said: “The Friends of the Oxfordshire Museum were very pleased to fund the museum’s application for the Sandford Award. We are delighted that the application was successful, further strengthening the museum’s deserved reputation for high-quality heritage education for children.”

For the award, the museum submitted an application and supporting evidence, followed by an assessor’s site visit. The assessor’s report praised the quality of its learning provision and identified priorities for future development.

The award follows the museum’s achievement of receiving the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC)’s Quality Badge earlier this year, which recognised the quality of its educational visits and risk management arrangements.

Schools interested in what is on offer can visit the museum’s website to find out more.

About the Sandford Award

The Sandford Award is the quality mark for heritage learning and validates heritage sites and services that offer a formal learning programme supporting the relevant curriculum across the home countries. Recognition is also given to informal learning, including family programmes and self-guided provision.

The scheme began in 1978 and is managed by the Heritage Education Trust in partnership with Lincoln Bishop University.

In 2026, the Heritage Education Trust announced 29 Sandford Award winners, including the Oxfordshire Museum.

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Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council are working together on the Banbury Framework Masterplan and have begun meeting with local stakeholders, including businesses, employers, and transport providers to get their views.

The work builds on previous public engagement and planning for the town, including the Banbury Vision 2050 project.

It forms part of a piece of work being delivered by consultants Prior + Partners, which is expected to conclude early next year.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “This is a chance to make a huge difference to parts of Banbury at an important point in its development, with opportunities emerging across the town centre, transport network, and key development sites.

“We recognise that an ambition of this scale cannot be achieved by the councils alone. Success will depend on building strong partnerships with those who share our passion for Banbury’s future. We know that future investment is becoming increasingly competitive, and so Banbury will need a clear vision to attract partners.

“We’ve already begun discussions with representatives from business, transport, health, environmental, cultural and education sectors to help ensure future development contributes positively to the town’s character, enhances quality of life, creates jobs and lasting opportunities for residents. We will continue listening and working with local communities to help shape a regeneration programme that delivers for Banbury.”

Councillor Lesley McLean, Leader of Cherwell District Council and Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, said: “Banbury has many strengths to build on, including its businesses, heritage, transport connections and strong sense of community. This masterplan will help identify new ways to attract investment, support local enterprise, create jobs and boost the town centre.

“Creating thriving town centres and a strong local economy that benefits residents is a key priority for Cherwell District Council. By working with our partners and engaging with businesses and stakeholders, we want to ensure Banbury is well placed to make the most of future opportunities and becomes an even more attractive place to live, work and visit.”

The Banbury plan is intended to help inform future investment planning to support the development of the town and bring in further funding to the area. The work will support a dedicated Banbury investment prospectus designed to promote the town’s profile and attract interested parties and financial opportunities.

The process will involve bringing together evidence, expertise, and local insight to create a clear plan for the town’s future and help ensure Banbury is well placed to secure investment and deliver long-term regeneration in the years ahead.

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A gate has been installed at the Bayswater Road end of Shepherd's Pit Lane, in the parish of Stanton St John, with the aim of creating safer and more attractive routes for people walking, wheeling, cycling and horse riding, by reducing the impact of motor traffic.

Access will be maintained for residents, farmers, landowners, businesses and emergency services, with other through-traffic routed along the B4027 Wheatley Road and Bayswater Road, which was already the most direct way.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: “Quiet lanes are part of our commitment to making roads safer and encouraging sustainable travel. By removing through traffic, quiet lanes can reduce vehicle numbers and speeds, lower the risk and severity of collisions, and make minor roads feel calmer and safer for people who walk, cycle, wheel and ride horses.

“The Shepherd’s Pit Lane quiet lane was developed following local concerns about road safety and through engagement with the local community. It will now be trialed using the same locally led and evidence-based approach that will be applied to future quiet lane schemes across Oxfordshire.

“This trial is an opportunity to see how a ‘fully filtered’ quiet lane works in practice, gather feedback from local people and collect robust evidence before any decisions are made about its future. I would encourage anyone with an interest in the trial to share their views.”

The consultation will run for at least six months with the trial set to run for at least a year.

The Shepherd's Pit Lane trial is the first to be delivered through the council's new countywide quiet lanes policy and pilot programme, approved in May 2026.

As part of this policy, gates or bollards will be used in quiet lane trials, reflecting updated evidence that signage only lanes do not reduce traffic or speed enough to improve safety.

The Shepherd's Pit Lane trial was developed in response to local concerns about road safety and limited opportunities for safe walking and cycling between Stanton St John village and Oxford. It has been shaped by local engagement carried out during 2025 and 2026, including discussions with village residents, landowners and the parish council.

Throughout the trial, the council will monitor the scheme and gather evidence, including consultation feedback and monitoring data. At the end of the experimental period, the Cabinet Member will make a public decision on whether the measures should remain in place, be amended or removed.

Scheme information and the consultation survey are available on the county council’s digital engagement and consultation platform, Let’s Talk Oxfordshire.

ENDS

Notes to editors

· Visit the consultation webpage:

letstalk.oxfordshire.gov.uk/shepherdspitlane_quiet_experiment2026

· The consultation survey will be open for at least the first six months of the trial, which will last for at least 12 months and a maximum of 18 months.

· The restriction is a locked gate with a 1.7m gap to allow people walking, wheeling, cycling and horse riding to pass through at all times. The restriction is located at the Bayswater Road end of Shepherd's Pit Lane and includes verge protection measures and signage. A reduced speed limit of 20 miles per hour is also in place.

· The measures will be implemented using an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), where they can be tested in place. ETROs are used when it is difficult to assess the impacts of a scheme beforehand, but the cost of implementation is relatively low. At the end of the six-month period, the council assesses the impacts, including any letters of support or objections, and decides whether to confirm, cancel or extend the ETRO for up to 12 months longer (18 months in total) to allow further consultation and monitoring.

· Traffic surveys were undertaken in October 2025 and will be repeated as part of the monitoring process. During the trial, the council will monitor traffic volumes, vehicle speeds, road safety outcomes and local feedback.

· Oxfordshire County Council's new programme, approved by cabinet in May 2026, will pilot up to ten quiet lanes across the county using a consistent assessment, consultation and monitoring process. The county council continues to assess other applications before confirming which other pilot sites will go ahead.

· Oxfordshire's quiet lanes policy uses filtering rather than signage alone because evidence reviewed by the council, including Department for Transport evaluations and findings from the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), found that sign-only quiet lanes generally deliver little or no reduction in traffic volumes or vehicle speeds. The evidence indicates that reducing through traffic is necessary to achieve meaningful safety, accessibility and active travel benefits.

· Learn more about quiet lanes by visiting our website: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/quiet-lanes-programme

Councillor Gareth Epps, Cabinet Member for Transport at Oxfordshire County Council said: “The traffic filter trial is the next step in helping us tackle congestion that has blighted the city for decades. I’m keen to understand the impacts of the trial scheme and see the feedback from residents, organisations and businesses. Your views and experiences will help us shape our future plans for improving travel and transport in and around Oxford.”

The consultation seeks residents’, businesses’, visitors’ and organisations’ feedback on their experience of the traffic filter trial, whether they have changed how they travel, and if they’d like to see any changes to the scheme. The survey can be completed online and paper copies are available from County Hall and Oxfordshire libraries.

The traffic filters trial replaced Oxford’s temporary congestion charge on Monday 28 September. It operates in a similar way to the temporary congestion charge, with the filters at the same six locations and a permit scheme in place. The key difference is that car drivers are no longer able to pay the £5 congestion charge to go through the traffic filters.

About the traffic filter trial

• The traffic filter trial was approved by Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet in November 2022, but implementation was delayed because of the closure of Botley Road, due to Network Rail’s improvements to Oxford Rail Station.
• At each traffic filter site, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras monitor and enforce the restrictions. There are no physical barriers. Cars without a valid permit driving through the filters will receive a fine of £70 (reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days).
• During the first six months of the traffic filter trial, the council will send a warning notice the first time any car goes through a traffic filter without using a permit, instead of sending a penalty charge notice.
• The scheme only applies to cars. All other vehicles are exempt. For those where car use is essential, there are 20 different types of permits e.g. for carers and community health and care workers, making travel around the city easier for these groups.

The locations and operating times of the traffic filters are the same as the temporary congestion charge:

- Marston Ferry Road and Hollow Way - Monday to Saturday - At peak times between 7am to 9am and 3pm to 6pm

- Hythe Bridge Street, St Cross Road, St Clement’s Street and Thames Street - Monday to Sunday - 7am to 7pm

For more information, visit oxfordshire.gov.uk/trafficfilters

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The traffic filter trial will operate in a similar way to the temporary congestion charge, with the filters at the same six locations and a permit scheme in place. The key difference is that car drivers will no longer be able to pay the £5 congestion charge to go through the traffic filters.

However, with Botley Road open, everywhere in Oxford will be accessible by car without having to drive through a traffic filter. You may need to take an alternative route.

Cars with valid permits and all other vehicles can travel through the filters at all times.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: "The experience of the temporary congestion charge has shown encouraging signs that people are changing how they travel. We have seen strong growth in park and ride use and significant increases in bus patronage. The traffic filter trial is the next step in helping us tackle congestion that has blighted the city for decades.

“A six-month public consultation will open on Monday. I’m keen to understand the impacts of the trial scheme and see the feedback from residents, organisations and businesses. Your views and experiences will help us shape our future plans for improving travel and transport in and around Oxford.”

For most people who already hold a temporary congestion charge permit, there is no need to take any action as their permits are transferred to the traffic filter scheme.

People who don’t yet have a permit can apply online. Residents in the Oxford permit area are eligible for 100 free day passes per year, while residents in the Oxfordshire permit area are eligible for 25 free day passes per year.

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The footbridge, which connects Swan Street with Ferry Hinksey Road and is used by residents including parents and pupils at West Oxford Community Primary School, was closed after Oxfordshire County Council inspectors identified safety concerns with the structure.

A short diversionary route goes from West Street to Botley Road and then back around to Ferry Hinksey Road. It will add about 10 minutes to most people’s journeys.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repairs, said: “We know how popular this footbridge is, and how important it is for this community.

“However, we cannot compromise when it comes to the safety of the public. The decision to close the bridge has not been taken lightly, but it was the only option in the circumstances.”

Engineers from the council and its principal highways contractor M Group will now consider options to reopen the bridge as soon as practically possible.

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People in Oxfordshire who are eligible for annual winter flu and COVID jabs are being encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Flu vaccinations are now available for pregnant women, children aged two to three years, school-aged children from reception to year 11, and children aged six months and over who have a long-term health condition that puts them at greater risk from flu.

Those aged 65 and over, those under 65 years old in a clinic risk group, people who live in care homes, carers, frontline health and social care workers, and those experiencing homelessness, will be able to get their free booster from 1 October.

Residents in care homes for older people, all adults aged 75 or over and individuals who are immunosuppressed aged six months and over can also get a free COVID booster. 

An RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine is also available to pregnant women, people aged 75 and over, adults of any age living in a care home for older adults, and those aged 65 to 74 who have a weakened immune system or a long-term lung condition (excluding well-controlled asthma).

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: "Flu, COVID and RSV can pose serious risks, especially to people with certain health conditions. They spread more in winter as we gather indoors, increasing the risk of severe illness. 

“The vaccination programme aims to provide those who need the most protection with the help they need. Getting the vaccine not only gives you extra protection but also protects your loved ones and those you work with.

“It's important to boost your protection regularly, as immunity decreases and viruses change each year, so don’t put it off, book your appointment today.

"As always, if you have a fever or feel unwell from a respiratory infection, stay home and limit contact with others."  

Where possible, vaccines will be given on the same day. Find out more about the vaccinations and how to book an appointment by visiting the NHS website.

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Helping residents, families and carers understand what can lead to a fall, and take proactive measures, can be crucial to keeping people in their own homes and out of hospital.

Falling over at home or when out and about is not an inevitable part of getting older, and there are ways to reduce the risk of it happening.

Falls Prevention Week highlights the things people can do to minimise the risk of falling. Falling over and becoming injured can be the start of a progression where people end up in hospital with an injury or illness, accelerating their need to use health and care services.

The website provides a single source of clear information and has been developed through Oxfordshire’s system falls prevention group, bringing together partners from across health, social care, district councils, the voluntary sector, ambulance services, care providers, academic colleagues and Oxfordshire County Council.

The site helps identify risks such as cluttered routes around the home and how cold or hot weather and different medications can affect balance and hydration levels. It also outlines practical steps people can take, such as staying active, going for a walk, or taking part in something they enjoy, to help reduce the risk of falling.

The aim is to support people to take early action, maintain confidence and stay independent for longer.

There is also information about where to go if you have concerns about falling or need help after a fall.

The web pages have already received great feedback from a patient advisory group, which said they were “really nice and simple to understand… clear and easy to read. The homepage is really good; it immediately helps to identify what one needs, such as an actual fall, or the other options to seek information, such as being the carer.”

Councillor Rebekah Fletcher, Cabinet Member for Adults, said: “Falls can have a significant impact on people’s confidence, health and independence, but they are not an inevitable part of getting older.

“This new website brings together clear, practical advice so people can understand their risks, take early action and know where to find support.

“It has been developed through strong partnership working across Oxfordshire, with organisations from health, social care, local councils, the voluntary sector and others contributing their expertise.

“Our aim is to help people stay active, stay well and remain independent for as long as possible. I would encourage residents, families, carers and professionals to take a look and share it with anyone who may benefit.”

Antoinette Broad, Senior Clinical Lead and Advanced Practitioner for Intensive Community Care with Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Falls prevention is a priority for Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust. I see first-hand the significant impact that falls can have on people’s health, confidence and independence, so anything that helps prevent them in the first place is really important.

“This new webpage brings together clear, practical information to help people reduce their risk of falling and understand where to access support if they are worried about themselves or someone they care for.”

A spokesperson for Oxford City Council said: “A fall can affect more than your mobility. It can impact your confidence and independence.

“The Falls Prevention website can help you find the right support, including advice on staying safe at home, reducing fall risks, and learning how the city council’s Home Improvement Agency can help you remain independent through practical home adaptations and support services.”

Paul Ringer, CEO at Age UK Oxfordshire, said: “We were pleased to contribute to the development of this resource, bringing together practical advice to help people reduce their risk of falling.

“Falls can have a significant impact on a person’s confidence and independence. By helping people stay active and understand the steps they can take to look after their health, we can support more people to remain independent and continue living safely in their own homes and communities.”

The website is available at www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/falls.

The web pages have been created by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, with expert input from Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Age UK Oxfordshire, Oxford City Council, Thames Valley Integrated Care Board, University of Oxford, Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers, South Central Ambulance Service.

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Roadworks by the housing developer David Wilson Homes at the Peachcroft roundabout are set to coincide with Oxfordshire County Council’s project at the A34 Lodge Hill junction for around six weeks, starting on Monday 28 September. The two sites are linked by a stretch of the A4183 Oxford Road.

The council is working closely with both project teams and contractors to coordinate the works effectively and implement the most appropriate traffic management.

Every effort is being made to sequence activities efficiently, maintain access where practicable, and reduce unnecessary disruption to residents, businesses, public transport operators, and all road users.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, said: “As highways authority, we would not normally permit two schemes like this to go ahead so close to each other at the same, due to the risk of creating additional congestion and delay.

“However, these are exceptional circumstances and allowing them to take place together will reduce the overall duration of the disruption and avoid delays to either of these vital schemes.”

Work at the Peachcroft roundabout, which connects the A4183, Dunmore Road and Twelve Acre Drive, will have temporary traffic lights in place to manage the flow of traffic.

Work at the Lodge Hill junction will involve two-way temporary traffic lights on the A4183 between the entrance to the Lodge Hill garage and the start of the new south roundabout. This set-up is in addition to the series of overnight closures on the A34 southbound between 21 September - 5 October.

Cllr Leffman added: “While some delays may be unavoidable, traffic management measures have been carefully considered to balance the need to complete these improvements safely with the need to keep traffic moving through the area. The works are also being monitored, allowing adjustments to be made where appropriate to minimise congestion.

“We recognise that the likely disruption will be frustrating, but we believe the short-term inconvenience will help deliver long-term benefits for the community and those travelling through Abingdon.”

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Next week, the project will replace the existing carriageway surface and road markings. It will also include verge clearance and drainage repairs and improvements.

The scheme has been developed by Oxfordshire County Council and its highways contactor M Group in close collaboration with industry-leading highways and low-carbon materials specialists.

It brings together five complementary innovations, which collectively are expected to reduce embodied carbon emissions by more than 30 tonnes of CO2 equivalent compared with conventional resurfacing.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repairs, said: “This project represents an exciting opportunity to bring together several industry-leading innovations within a single scheme and better understand how they can help us reduce carbon emissions from highway maintenance.

“Importantly, the trial is about more than carbon reduction alone. We are also exploring how these technologies can improve durability, reduce future maintenance requirements and support better long-term outcomes for Oxfordshire's road network.”

The largest single carbon saving is expected to come through replacing a conventional asphalt binder course with a bespoke mix of Breedon’s ACLA Net Zero Binder Course that has been specifically developed for this scheme.

The innovations have also been chosen for their ability to improve construction quality, enhance long-term durability and support biodiversity. These include:

• The use of Breedon's ACLA net zero binder course, a lower-carbon asphalt material that is expected to deliver the largest carbon saving within the scheme.
• Shell Cariphalte Ultra Carbon Sink Polymer Modified Bitumen, which combines carbon reduction benefits with enhanced pavement durability.
• Thermal Joint Heating technology to improve the quality and longevity of asphalt joints.
• Cold-applied MMA road markings, to be delivered by Wilson & Scott Highways which significantly reduce installation emissions compared with conventional thermoplastic markings.
• A biodiversity enhancement programme, including the creation of habitat features using suitable site-won materials.
• Solar powered welfare cabins and high-tech traffic management to reduce resource requirements, provided by TSM Ltd
• Use of electric plant by sub-contractors Breedon and DJT.

Richard Lovewell, M Group’s Business Director said: “M Group is proud to be working with Oxfordshire County Council to pioneer new approaches to carbon reduction.

“This is much more than a change in material use: by working in alliance with our supply chain partners Breedon, DJT, TSM and Wilson & Scott we are combining a range of lower carbon materials, plant and equipment, welfare cabins, traffic management innovation and techniques within one project. This enables us to evaluate how they perform together in real-world conditions and generate learning that could influence future schemes across the industry.”

To enable the work to be carried out safely, the road will be closed in three phases:

• Phase 1: Monday 21 September to Friday 25 September: Full road closure to allow verge clearance, drainage repairs and resurfacing preparation works.
• Phase 2: Monday 28 September to Friday 2 October: Full road closure to enable carriageway resurfacing and the replacement of road markings.
• Phase 3: Monday 5 October to Wednesday 7 October: Full road closure to complete drainage improvements and verge reinstatement.

A signed diversion route will be in place throughout the closures, and the road will be reopened whenever it is safe to do so outside these periods. Staff will be positioned at either end of the closure to assist residents, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists and to help maintain the safety of both the workforce and the travelling public.

More information is available on the highways maintenance page of Oxfordshire County Council’s website.

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Applications have now opened for the Community Capacity Fund, administered by Oxfordshire Community Foundation, with £503,392.50 available in grants of between £5,000 and £20,000. 

The funding is designed to support Oxfordshire County Council’s Oxfordshire Way approach, helping residents to live well in their own communities for as long as possible by backing local activities that reduce isolation, improve wellbeing, increase physical activity and strengthen community support.

Over the past year, Oxfordshire Community Foundation funding, which helps build thriving communities, has supported 38 projects across the county. Hundreds of people have taken part in theatre and concerts, learned practical life skills such as cooking, accessed counselling, enjoyed gardening through improved accessibility, found warm spaces and meals, and joined physical activities including pickleball.

A second funding stream, worth £271,057.50, will also be available through Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action, OCVA, working with Community First Oxfordshire, CFO. These smaller awards of up to £5,000 will open on Tuesday 6 October and remain available until the funding has been allocated.

Last year, 86 groups benefited from the smaller awards, helping local organisations provide practical, accessible and inclusive activities close to where people live.

Councillor Rebekah Fletcher, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, said:

 “Community groups are often the first to spot what people need and the first to offer practical, compassionate support.

“This funding gives organisations rooted in their communities the chance to grow their ideas, reach more residents and make everyday life better for people who may otherwise feel isolated or struggle to access support.

“Whether it is a meal, a warm welcome, a drama session, a gardening group or a chance to try something new, these activities can be a lifeline. They help people build confidence, make friends and get the right support at the right time.

“If you volunteer with or support a community group that helps people live well, stay independent and feel connected, I encourage you to apply.

“This funding is a great opportunity to bring good ideas to life and make a difference.”

The difference this funding can make can be seen at Chipping Norton Theatre, which has continued to provide drama sessions for neurodivergent adults and adults with a learning disability. The programme transformed the life of one participant who previously would not speak and now performs on stage. Another participant said: “I really enjoy coming to drama because it gives me the chance to meet my friends and it has helped me have more confidence in myself when performing.”

Witney Community Meal is another example of local action making a real difference. It provides meals every Thursday from High Street Methodist Church, helping to tackle food poverty and social isolation while also creating volunteering opportunities, including for neurodiverse people.

Apply now: Groups seeking between £5,000 and £20,000 should check the eligibility criteria and submit an expression of interest online at OCF by Monday 5 October.

Community groups looking to apply for up to £5,000, alongside additional support from OCVA and CFO, can find out more online. Organisations are encouraged to read the guidance carefully, check which funding stream best fits their project, and apply as soon as possible.

Notes for Editors

Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action, OCVA, assists people to help others by supporting and empowering volunteers, networks, partnerships and non-profit organisations.

Community First Oxfordshire, CFO, is a community development charity which helps groups and individuals to identify issues that affect them and find their own solutions. It supports and advises volunteer-led actions in Oxfordshire, helping hundreds of volunteers fulfil many roles in their communities.

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The grants, ranging from £85 to £3,000, will be used by organisations across the county to tackle the impact of high temperatures, floods, droughts, and storms in Oxfordshire caused by climate change.

The expanded community resilience small grants programme, administered by Community Action Groups Oxfordshire (CAG) and funded by £44,724 from Oxfordshire County Council, supports local events and activities which address or raise awareness of climate adaptation.

This year’s grants have increased from last year when 11 groups received a total of £12,000.

The money will help fund projects including practical ways to make homes more bearable during heatwaves, creating cooler community spaces, tree planting, growing food, harvesting rainwater, and tackling climate anxiety.

The full list of recipients can be found on the CAG Oxfordshire website.

Katherine Chesson, Director of CAG Oxfordshire, said: “Our role at CAG is to support community leaders who, in turn, are able to support their neighbours.

“With this strategic funding from the county council, we are able to make a direct investment in local knowledge and expertise in order to facilitate more connected, prepared communities from the impacts of the climate and nature crisis.”

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “The increase in funding allocated for these grants this year shows how important we believe it is to support communities in carrying out these projects.

“They are the experts and know their own areas better than anyone. This summer’s heatwaves were not one-off occurrences, but the new reality for the UK and we all need to adapt. So, it is inspiring to be able to help so many communities to help themselves tackle the heat and other instances of extreme weather.”

The awards also recognise that climate action will impact on people’s health and wellbeing.

Flooding in Oxfordshire in recent years brought this into the spotlight, with some people suffering a loss of livelihood and a negative impact on their mental health. These events are going to be more common going forward as extreme weather events become more frequent.

One of the recipients is the Cherwell Collective, which successfully applied in all three categories – heat safe homes grants, community resilience grants, and climate anxiety grants.

Victoria Russell, Programme Manager at Cherwell Collective, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the long and short term support of CAG Oxfordshire. The funds are going to help us tackle climate anxiety within Oxfordshire and go towards the work that Cherwell Collective is doing with the Oxfordshire Good Waste Charter, a grassroots initiative that is looking to pave the way for waste in Oxfordshire.”

The council has been increasing its focus on improving heat resilience in the county through a series of training and information events and seminars this year.

It has funded the CAGs to appoint a resilience coordinator to begin community-led learning and capacity building and launched a community of best practice for building resilience, with the first event taking place in September 2026.

Climate risks such as extreme heat, intense storms, and severe flooding are an increasing threat to public health, particularly for vulnerable residents, including older people, people with disabilities, and those with long-term health conditions.

In England, an estimated 2,877 heat-associated deaths occurred during this year’s May and June heat events alone. Many homes, schools, hospitals, public buildings, and other infrastructure are not designed for the weather events now being experienced and are becoming increasingly vulnerable.

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They will be doing so alongside over 40 existing schools who already benefit from the GL Assessments Wellcomm speech and language programme, ensuring support is available early, when it is needed most. 

The Oxfordshire ‘Out Loud’ Wellcomm programme is a £90,000 investment by Oxfordshire County Council, through its new SEND reform budget for the academic year 2026-27. It is set to benefit all pupils, not just those who have special educational needs and disabilities.

Councillor Sean Gaul, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “This investment will make a significant difference at the right time in a child's education. The initiative enables schools to screen children's language and communication development and deliver targeted interventions, with resources available for everyday classroom teaching.”

By understanding where children may be facing language and communication differences and having a measurable baseline at an early stage, schools can provide practical and specific help quickly, with the aim of preventing these needs becoming a barrier to learning.

Schools in the Oxfordshire ‘Out Loud’ programme will have access to guidance from the council’s specialist advisory teachers and Oxford Health’s speech and language therapists to support using the screening tool and to build on language and communication support within their classrooms. This means children receive help when needs are identified instead of waiting for referrals to specialist services. 

Over 2,200 children in 44 schools were screened between March 2025 and March 2026. Following intervention and specific teaching approaches, there was an increase of nearly 30 per cent of pupils screening at expected levels compared to their initial screening scores. This positive progress is crucial in supporting children’s language and communication skills in Oxfordshire.

In addition to the Wellcomm investment, Oxford Health has delivered a major waiting list recovery programme within its speech and language therapy service. Between September 2024 and August 2026, the number of children and young people waiting reduced from 2,890 to 1,214. Over the same period, the number waiting more than a year reduced from 1,408 to 149, representing an almost 90 per cent reduction in long waits.

Mark Chambers, Head of Children’s Community Services, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The earlier we can identify and support speech, language and communication needs, the better the outcomes for children and young people.

“This expansion is a positive step forward for Oxfordshire, bringing together schools, the council and NHS services to ensure more children receive the right support at the right time.

“We are proud to play our part in helping children develop the communication skills that are so important for learning and life.”

Oxfordshire ‘Out Loud’ builds on the proven success of Oxfordshire's early years advisory team, which has used the WellComm toolkit to support speech, language and communication development since 2021.

The early years advisory team has rolled out the WellComm toolkit to all private, voluntary and independent settings and school based nurseries across the county, alongside a comprehensive training and support programme.

This has enabled practitioners to confidently identify children's language needs early, implement targeted support strategies and improve outcomes for children, including those with English as an additional language.

There are plans to make the programme available in all primary schools across the county by 2030, with future opportunities to explore support for secondary aged pupils as well. 

Further information is available by emailing: primarywellcomm@oxfordshire.gov.uk 

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An Oxford restaurant and shisha lounge operator has been ordered to pay more than £1,000 after pleading guilty to tobacco offences following an investigation by Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards.

At Reading Magistrates' Court on 11 September 2026, Karim Elmoheen pleaded guilty to three tobacco offences. He also entered guilty pleas on behalf of Aywarestaurants Ltd, the company which operates Mint Kitchen & Lounge, 21 Temple Street, Oxford.

The prosecution followed a trading standards inspection of the premises on 23 February 2025 as part of a project examining compliance at premises supplying shisha products.

During the inspection, officers found widespread breaches of tobacco packaging legislation. Many products did not carry the legally required health warnings, whilst others referred to prohibited flavours, tastes and smells. Officers also found tobacco that had been decanted into unlabelled containers.

In total, trading standards seized 116 unit packs of waterpipe tobacco weighing more than 35 kilograms. 

The court heard that the business had previously received advice and guidance from trading standards during a compliance visit in August 2024. Despite this, substantial quantities of non-compliant tobacco remained available for supply when officers returned to the premises in February 2025.

Magistrates fined Elmoheen £120, ordered him to pay a victim surcharge of £48 and contribute £168 towards prosecution costs. Aywarestaurants Ltd was fined £240, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £96 and contribute £336 towards prosecution costs. The total financial penalty imposed was £1,008. The court also ordered the forfeiture of all tobacco products seized during the investigation.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: "Many people wrongly believe that smoking shisha is less harmful than smoking cigarettes. Tobacco laws exist to ensure consumers are given clear information about the health risks involved”

Davina Walkin, Oxfordshire County Council's Trading Standards Operations Manager, said: “The products found at Mint Kitchen & Lounge lacked important health warnings and included unlawful references to tastes and smells.  The business had previously received advice and guidance, which it did not follow.  We welcome the guilty pleas entered in this case.”

Anyone with information about the illegal sale of tobacco can contact 0300 999 6 999 or report it anonymously via www.stop-illegal-tobacco.co.uk

More information

• At the time of the seizure the tobacco duty rate for waterpipe tobacco was £183.49 per kilogram.
• Waterpipe tobacco, commonly known as shisha, is a regulated tobacco product and suppliers must adhere to strict rules on packaging and description.
• The offences related to failures to display statutory health warnings and the use of packaging referring to prohibited tastes or smells.
• All seized tobacco products were forfeited by order of the court and will be destroyed.
• Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable illness and premature death in the UK.

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Oxfordshire County Council carried out the carriageway maintenance and resurfacing programme along the A361 through Banbury, between the junctions with the A422 Hennef Way roundabout and the B4100 Banbury Cross roundabout.

The work began on 24 August and was completed on 10 September – one shift ahead of schedule.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repairs, said: “This was a very important scheme for Banbury as this road runs right through the heart of the town. It was a massive piece of work, and it needed to be done as it has been many years since it was last resurfaced properly.

“The work will extend the life of the road by preventing water getting in, reducing the need for frequent repairs, enhancing skid resistance for safer travel, and smoothing out road surfaces for a more comfortable ride.”

The Banbury work was part of major programme of road improvements. From the end of May until early October, the council and its principal highways contractor M Group are visiting 38 sites to resurface about 115,000 square metres of roads across the county.

While effective, resurfacing is also expensive and disruptive, requiring road closures and diversions. So, in Oxfordshire, resurfacing work has been combined with a wide range of preventative maintenance treatments to improve the quality and longevity of the county’s roads at a lower cost and with less disruption to the public.

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The annual competition, hosted by Oxfordshire County Council’s libraries service, is a chance to discover new writers, original stories and unique voices from around Oxfordshire.

Winners of each category will see their short story published as an eBook on the Oxfordshire Libraries OverDrive platform and Libby app.

Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Our short story competition is always popular and generates amazing levels of creativity and engagement.

“Past winning stories have gone on to become some of the year's most popular downloads, making this a fantastic opportunity to get your writing published, discovered and enjoyed by readers across the county.”

The competition is split into three age categories:

• Children: seven to 11 years old
• Young adult: 12 to 17 years old
• Adult: 18 and above.

Children’s stories can be up to 1,000 words. Stories by young adults and adults can be up to 3,000 words.

The competition is free to enter, and entries can be submitted until Sunday 15 November 2026.

Full competition terms and conditions as well as information about how to submit entries can be found on Oxfordshire County Council’s website.

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Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, has written to Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Housing and Local Government Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (available to download, right), and shares his thoughts on the implications of this development for Oxfordshire in the video above.

You can read more about LGR, including the latest updates, on our LGR and devolution webpage.

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Between 14 and 30 September, Oxfordshire County Council will carry out the work on the A420 west of Southmoor, on the staggered crossroads between Longworth and Charney Bassett.

The scheme will extend the current single lane in both directions from the Faringdon side by approximately 1km, so that it is just one lane both ways through the junction. The speed limit will also be reduced from 70mph to 50mph.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “These changes will be welcomed by road users as a way of making this site safer. The current junction is a concern for many drivers, particular those exiting the side roads into and across two lanes of fast-moving traffic.”

The work is dependent on dry conditions. Weather permitting, traffic management will be in place at these dates and times while the work is carried out:

• Monday 14 September: lane closures from 9.30am - 3.30pm for preparatory works
• Tuesday 15 - 17 September: lane closures for grass cutting and gully work
• Friday 18 - Wednesday 30 September: layby closures, 24 hours a day, to accommodate equipment
• Monday 21 - Wednesday 30 September: lane closures from 7am - 7pm with traffic management in place; full road closures from 7pm - 7am, with a signed diversion route in operation.

The speed limit reduction was approved by Oxfordshire County Council last November to be appropriate for the new junction layout and as part of its review of the limits on all A and B roads in the county – one of the tools within its Vision Zero strategy to reduce fatal and severe injuries for all road users in Oxfordshire.

Cllr Epps added: “Our speed limits review is all about reducing deaths and serious injuries on our roads. The premise that no one should be killed or seriously injured as the result of a road collision, whatever mode of transport they are using, is at the heart of our Vision Zero strategy.”

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Councillor Matthew Webb, who represents Bicester North, was appointed to the role on Tuesday and hopes to use the position to build stronger links between the council and the thousands of small businesses that contribute to Oxfordshire’s economy and communities.

Cllr Webb said: “Small businesses are incredibly important to Oxfordshire. They create jobs, support our high streets and town centres, innovate, invest in their communities and contribute enormously to the character and prosperity of the places in which we live.

“But running a small business is not always easy. Whether it is dealing with rising costs, recruitment and skills, transport and infrastructure, regulation, accessing support or simply finding the time to make their voice heard, small business owners face very real pressures.

“I want this role to provide a strong link between those businesses and the county council. A key part of that will be listening. I want to hear directly from businesses about what is working, what isn't, and where the council can either help or make it easier for businesses to succeed.

“I also want to make sure that when we develop policies and make decisions, we properly consider their impact on small businesses. Sometimes relatively small changes can make a significant difference to somebody trying to run a business.”

Like other member champion roles, such as active travel and cycling, and public transport, the small business champion is an unpaid and non-decision-making position aimed at supporting cabinet members and assisting in policy development.

Cllr Webb said he intends to meet businesses and business organisations across Oxfordshire, including those in the county’s towns, villages and rural communities.

“One thing I am particularly keen to avoid is assuming that we already know what businesses need,” he added. “Oxfordshire has an extraordinarily diverse economy, and the challenges facing a shop in one of our market towns may be very different from those facing a rural business, a manufacturer, a technology company or somebody who has just started working for themselves.”

Alongside his role as a county councillor, he has extensive professional experience working within the small business sector, including in the electronics distribution industry.

His work has given him first-hand experience of many of the practical issues facing smaller companies, including working with customers and suppliers, quality and environmental standards, regulatory requirements and the day-to-day realities of operating and growing a business.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “Small businesses are at the heart of our communities and are a key pillar of Oxfordshire’s economy. I’m looking forward to working with Cllr Webb to ensure we’re supporting small businesses across the county to thrive.”

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A former shop worker has been ordered to pay more than £2,000 after admitting offences linked to the supply of illegal vapes, following an investigation by Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards team.

Darian Kaify Hassani, 20, of Frederick Road, Cowley, admitted personally supplying illegal vapes to trading standards test purchasers and aiding and abetting the company in supplying hundreds more products that breached legal nicotine liquid limits.

Hassani changed his plea to guilty on the morning of the trial at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court on 2 September 2026. He was fined £720 and ordered to pay £1,000 towards prosecution costs, together with a surcharge of £288, making a total of £2,008.

The prosecution followed a trading standards’ investigation into Khalifa Super Store, formerly trading from 120 Cowley Road, Oxford.

Councillor Kate Gregory Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “I am pleased that our trading standards team have once again been able to remove illegal, addictive products from our high streets. This case demonstrates that individuals who knowingly assist in the sale of illegal products can be held personally accountable for their actions.”

The court heard test purchases were made by a trading standards officer on 23 February 2025 and again on 16 March 2025. Both devices sold by Hassani contained nicotine containing liquid five times the maximum 2ml capacity permitted by law. 

He also acknowledged helping the company supply 339 illegal disposable vapes, comprising 214 vapes containing 10ml of nicotine liquid, and 125 containing 24ml - up to twelve times the legal limit.

The packaging also failed to include the required UK producer or importer contact details.

The products were discovered on 16 March 2025 inside a concealed compartment, operated by electro-magnet, built into shelving directly behind the shop counter.  The court heard that Hassani regularly worked in the retail area of the shop and had been present during earlier trading standards inspections and seizures.

Despite being aware of officers' concerns regarding these products, he continued to involve himself in their sale and supply.

Davina Walkin, Oxfordshire County Council's Trading Standards Operations Manager, added: "Mr Hassani had previously been present during trading standards interventions and was aware of officers' concerns regarding these products. Despite that knowledge, he continued to assist in their sale and supply.

“My officers will continue to take robust action against those involved in this illegal trade in order to protect consumers and support legitimate businesses."

Anyone with information about the illegal sale of tobacco, vapes or related products can report it anonymously by calling 0300 999 6 999 or by visiting www.stop-illegal-tobacco.co.uk.

More information

The court was told that Hassani had left his employment at Khalifa Super Store in December 2025 and is currently in receipt of Universal Credit of £338.50 and housing benefit of £660 each month.

Yadgar Ghafour, the former owner and director of Khalifa Super Store Ltd, previously pleaded guilty to all offences at Oxford Magistrates’ Court on Friday 28 November 2025 and was ordered to pay £3907.24 in fines and costs.  Khalifa Super Store Ltd also pleaded guilty to all offences and was ordered to pay £17,616.24 in fines and costs.

Khalifa Super Store Ltd now trades as Khalifa Supermarket from 120 Cowley Road and is under different ownership.

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Find out more about the exhibition by visiting Philippa James’ website.

Thanks to Photo Oxford | Biennial Photography Festival in Oxford

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Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “I welcome today’s announcement pausing the government’s minded to decision for local government reorganisation (LGR) for Oxfordshire. It provides an opportunity to review the underpinning advice, considerations and evidence that informed the secretary of state’s decision, which I have already written to MHCLG to ask to see.

Councillor Judith Edwards, Cabinet Member for LGR and Human Resources, added: “Considerable work has taken place already to prepare our communities for LGR in Oxfordshire and West Berkshire along the lines of the government’s announcement in July.

"We will be seeking further clarity from the government, including what this means for local elections in May, and how this will affect the LGR timeline in our area.”

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Residents are being encouraged to get their blood pressure checked in a new initiative at Oxfordshire County Council’s libraries.

As part of Blood Pressure UK’s annual Know Your Numbers Week, held this year from 7 to 13 September, people can check their blood pressure at a dedicated ‘pressure station’ in any of the county’s 44 libraries.

People with undiagnosed and uncontrolled high blood pressure are more at risk from serious health issues such as stroke and heart attack.

Pressure stations will be available to anybody to use, whether they have been asked to do so by a doctor, or simply curious.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so the only way to know if your reading is high is to have it checked to lower your risk of serious health issues.

“Our libraries are trusted, welcoming spaces at the heart of communities across Oxfordshire, so they are a natural place to host these free pressure stations. This is a completely free and easy way to check your blood pressure, just drop into one of our libraries during the week where teams will be on hand to help. It takes just a couple of minutes but could change your life.”

The initiative was coordinated by Alet Ransom, Primary Care Network Pharmacy Technician and Cardiovascular Disease Champion, who worked alongside Oxfordshire County Council’s public health team and library service to develop the pressure stations and make it easier for people to check their blood pressure in familiar community settings.

She said: “I’m immensely proud to have helped bring this project from an idea into reality.

“The aim was always to make it easier for people, whether library users or visitors to the area, to ‘know their numbers’ and, where needed, take the next step towards looking after their cardiovascular health. 

“Knowing that the project is now being taken forward and rolled out across the county’s libraries is hugely rewarding, and I’m excited that it will give many more people the opportunity to access this simple but potentially life-changing service.”

Anyone found to have a high reading will be offered advice on simple steps they can take and encouraged to seek further support from their GP or local pharmacy if needed.

Residents can find their nearest library and check opening times on Oxfordshire County Council’s website.

Find out more about the Know Your Numbers Week campaign by visiting Blood Pressure UK’s website.

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During 2025/26, Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service attended 58 chimney fires, with most occurring during the colder months when fireplaces, log burners and solid fuel appliances are used more frequently.

Many householders and businesses, despite being safety conscious, may forget to have their chimney or flue swept or inspected before using their fire when the weather changes.

They may also be unaware of the need to check first floor connections to chimneys, where debris and dust can accumulate in redundant upper floor fireplaces.

Andy Ford, Safety Manager for Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, said: “All chimneys and flues should be regularly cleaned and checked to ensure they’re free from debris, soot and other blockages, such as birds’ nests, and in full working order ready to use safely when the weather gets colder.

“A blocked or defective chimney can cause both chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisonings so it’s very important to employ a professionally qualified chimney sweep.

“If the worst should happen, working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms can give you an early warning. Make sure you have at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home and test them monthly; and don’t keep this advice to yourself – please, pass it on.”

Guidance for owners of wood burners includes not stacking logs next to the fire; they might look nice, but there is a risk of accidental ignition through radiated heat over time.

Care should be taken to use the correct fuel recommended for a fire or stove; firewood and fuel should be stored outside, away from buildings, with wood burners never left unattended when lit.

Residents are also being asked to always use a fire guard to protect against flying sparks and hot embers, making sure embers are under control and properly put out before going to bed.

Andy added: “Never be complacent when it comes to fire safety in the home, now is the time to get your chimney cleaned.”

Further information and advice is available on Oxfordshire County Council’s website.

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Eleven on-street sites in Berinsfield, Burford, Henley-on-Thames, Kidlington and Oxford were given the go-ahead at an Oxfordshire County Council cabinet member decision meeting on Thursday 3 September.

These sites are being delivered by the county council through a £4 million government funded programme to install more than 1,500 public chargers of different types by summer 2028. Most sites in the overall programme will be in off-street car parks, with the remainder on street.

Seven other on-street sites across Oxford, Shrivenham, Witney and Bampton were deferred, to allow time for more engagement and site assessment work.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Approving these first sites marks an important step in making electric vehicle charging more widely available across Oxfordshire.

“There is more work to do before some sites can move forward, but we need to achieve a balance between ensuring residents without EVs can continue to park and access essential amenities and providing a public charger service that encourages EV take-up.

“Reliable public charging is essential if people are to have the confidence to switch to electric vehicles. This is particularly important for residents without driveways and for rural and underserved communities, so that nobody is left behind.”

When finished, the programme will more than double the number of currently available public EV chargers in Oxfordshire ahead of 2030 when no new petrol or diesel vehicles can be sold in the UK.

The Oxfordshire EV infrastructure programme involves four strands of work:

• providing public chargers in council-owned car parks
• providing public on-street chargers
• allowing residents to apply for EV cable channels outside their homes
• and working with town and parish councils to install EV charging microhubs at community facilities.

The programme is designed to help the estimated 30 per cent of Oxfordshire residents who do not have a driveway or private off-street parking where they could charge an EV.

More than 700 responses were received during a formal traffic regulation order consultation on the first 18 on-street sites, held from 8 July to 7 August 2026. The council considered concerns about parking pressure, footway space, and the appearance of equipment in conservation areas before the decisions were made.

The network is intended to be reliable, easy to use and contactless. Most on-street units will be standard 7.4kW chargers so that residents without home chargers can charge their EVs at discounted energy rates while parked for several hours or overnight. There will also be a smaller number of rapid 50kw+ chargers installed in strategic locations and where the electrical supply allows.

Future proposed charger sites are still being assessed to make sure they are suitable, practical and carefully planned. This includes checking the detailed design, technical feasibility and electrical connections before any final decisions are made.

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

Notes to editors

• In Oxford, Binsey Lane, Cowley Road, Hamilton Road, and Whitehouse Road/Salter Close were approved, with Hockmore Street, Water Eaton Road and Cuddesdon Way approved pending additional work to establish that a minimum of 1.5 metres of space is left clear on the footway when equipment is installed.
• The Cuddesdon Way site is also dependent on whether an alternative off-street site can be delivered instead.
• Latimer Road was deferred to allow for further consideration of wider parking changes in the area and pending the council being unable to find better supported alternative local sites.
• The Phelps site in Kidlington was approved pending the council being unable to find better supported alternative local sites.
• Sites in Shrivenham, Witney and Bampton were deferred to allow for more local engagement.
• EV parking spaces proposed for Deddington will be decided upon at an October cabinet member decision meeting.
• EV parking spaces proposed for Carterton and Eynsham will not go ahead at this time.
• Installation of approved sites remains subject to detailed design, technical feasibility and electrical connection work.
• Connected Kerb is a partner investor in the programme and will install and operate on-street chargers, as well as chargers at Oxfordshire County Council park and ride sites and other county council car parks.
• Bicester firm EZ-Charge will install and operate charging hubs in participating city and district council car parks.

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An initial pre-feasibility study by Oxfordshire County Council explored the potential for the new station on the Chiltern Main Line, including assessing viability and identifying key considerations for further development.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “A new station at Ardley is something we explored in last year’s OxRail 2040: Plan for Rail, our ambitious plan to improve rail transport and connectivity across Oxfordshire and the wider region.

“This latest study, which we commissioned, has shown that a station at Ardley could significantly enhance rail access for nearby communities currently reliant on road travel. It could also serve a wider catchment area with appropriate infrastructure, mitigating the effects of wider proposed growth and transport changes.”

The pre-feasibility study is an early evaluation to see if there is enough evidence to continue developing the Ardley station proposal and to identify opportunities and constraints without selecting a final design or committing to delivery.

An initial simple station concept includes two platforms, accessible facilities, and modest parking, with an estimated cost range of between £24 - 29 million. A possible location would be the site of the historic Ardley station and its sidings, which closed in 1963.

Any further work would need to include detailed assessments of location, design, costs, timetable integration, environmental impacts, stakeholder engagement, and funding options to support the next stage – a potential strategic outline case.

OxRail 2040 proposes four new stations – Oxford Cowley, Oxford Littlemore, Begbroke and Wantage & Grove – while also exploring the feasibility of a fifth at Ardley.

These schemes will be developed through business case, design and delivery in partnership with the government, the infrastructure manager, operators, developers, commercial partnerships and district councils.

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Oxfordshire County Council’s temporary congestion charge will be replaced by the traffic filter trial on 28 September as the council continues its work to tackle congestion, improve bus reliability and support sustainable travel across the city.

For most people who already hold a temporary congestion charge permit, there is no need to take any action as their permit will automatically transfer to the traffic filter scheme. However, Oxfordshire residents, businesses and organisations that do not currently hold a permit are being encouraged to check their eligibility and apply before the trial begins.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: "If you don't currently have a permit and think you may be eligible, now is the time to check and apply. Taking action now will help ensure a smooth transition when the trial begins on 28 September."

Applications can be made online. Residents in the Oxford permit area are eligible for 100 free day passes per year, while residents in the Oxfordshire permit area are eligible for 25 free day passes per year.

The traffic filter trial was approved by Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet in November 2022 following a public consultation.

The temporary congestion charge was introduced in October 2025 as an interim measure while the Botley Road closure prevented the planned introduction of traffic filters. Monitoring data published monthly shows a number of encouraging trends.

Use of Oxford's park and ride network has increased significantly since the congestion charge was introduced. The most recent data for July 2026 shows that usage was up by 44 per cent at Redbridge, 33 per cent at Oxford Parkway and 31 per cent at Seacourt compared with the previous year.

Oxford Bus Company has reported around 41,000 additional passenger journeys per week across Oxfordshire compared with the same period last year, representing approximately 12 per cent growth. Around 17,450 of those journeys each week are linked to increased park and ride use.

The council's monitoring has recorded consistently lower traffic volumes on a number of key routes into Oxford, including Magdalen Bridge, Folly Bridge and Abingdon Road, which showed reductions of 8 per cent, 12 per cent and 5 per cent respectively in June 2026. At the same time, some outer and ring-road sections are experiencing increased traffic or longer journeys, such as the sections between Cutteslowe roundabout and Wolvercote roundabout, Headington and Marsh Lane, and the southern ring road around Kennington, Heyford Hill and Hinksey Hill.

More than 129,000 permits have been issued since the temporary congestion charge was introduced.

Councillor Epps added: "The experience of the temporary congestion charge has shown encouraging signs that people are changing how they travel and that traffic and journey times have improved on many routes into central Oxford. We have seen strong growth in park and ride use, significant increases in bus patronage and improvements in journey times on a number of key routes into the city.

"The traffic filter trial is the next step in helping us tackle congestion that has blighted the city for decades.

“A six-month public consultation will open on 28 September. Feedback from residents and businesses will help us shape our future plans. We are listening and learning as we develop the best long-term solution for traffic in and around Oxford.”

About the traffic filter trial

• The traffic filter trial will operate in a similar way to the temporary congestion charge, with the filters being at the same six locations and a permit scheme in place. The trial, under an experimental traffic regulation order, can last for up to a maximum of 18 months.
• The key difference is that, from 28 September, car drivers will no longer be able to pay the £5 congestion charge to go through the traffic filters. However, with Botley Road open, everywhere in Oxford will be accessible by car at all times without driving through a traffic filter. You may need to take an alternative route, but often you won’t.
• Cars with valid permits and all other vehicles can travel through the filters at all times.
• At each traffic filter site, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras will monitor and enforce the restrictions. There will be no physical barriers. Cars without a valid permit driving through the filters will receive a fine of £70 (reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days).
• During the first six months of the traffic filter trial, the council will send a warning notice the first time any car goes through a traffic filter without using a permit, instead of sending a penalty charge notice.
• The scheme only applies to cars. All other vehicles are exempt. For those where car use is essential, there are 20 different types of permits e.g. for carers and community health and care workers, making travel around the city easier for these groups.

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Residents are being encouraged to take up the offer of a free electric blanket check, part of Oxfordshire County Council’s programme to ensure everyone is safe, as well as warm, this winter.

As electric blanket tests are normally very popular, they must be booked in advance to be guaranteed.

Sessions will be held at locations across the county. The full address and a specific time slot will be provided at time of booking:

September 2026:

• Monday 21: Thame
• Tuesday 22: Rose Hill, Oxford
• Wednesday 23: Banbury
• Thursday 24: Chipping Norton
• Friday 25: Abingdon

October 2026

• Monday 5: Didcot
• Tuesday 6: Barton, Headington
• Wednesday 7: Bicester
• Thursday 8: Witney
• Friday 9: Wantage

Of the 920 electric blankets tested at last year’s events, 338 failed safety assessments - a failure rate of 36.7 per cent, which is an increase from the previous year.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “This is something we have been offering for 26 years, free of charge, to our residents, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of it. If the condition of a blanket is allowed to deteriorate, there is a risk it could become faulty, posing a danger of injury or fire.

“Blankets and throws might fail a safety assessment for many reasons, and even quite new blankets can fail. This is why it’s important to have them regularly tested at one of our free annual events.

“We know electric blankets might not be top of your summer to-do list, but now is the perfect time to make sure yours is safe for winter.”

Appointments can be booked by visiting electric blanket testing, calling 01865 895999 (option three) or emailing duty.officer@oxfordshire.gov.uk.

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The warning follows a series of Oxfordshire County Council trading standards’ investigations into the supply and sale of illegal tobacco products from retail premises across the county.

Officers have found businesses repeatedly selling counterfeit and smuggled tobacco from retail premises, undermining legitimate traders and depriving public services of vital revenue.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: "We hear the concerns of residents who are worried about the changing face of some high streets and the impact organised criminality can have on local communities.

“The illegal tobacco trade is not victimless. It damages legitimate businesses, facilitates tax evasion, undermines public health measures and is frequently associated with wider criminality.

“Oxfordshire is not a soft touch. The council and its partners are committed to creating a hostile environment for individuals and organised crime groups who profit from illegal tobacco and launder the proceeds of their offending.”

Illegal tobacco is often linked to organised criminal groups, tax evasion, money laundering and the exploitation of vulnerable people.

Landlords are advised to:

• Carry out appropriate due diligence before granting a new tenancy
• Ensure there is a written tenancy or lease agreement in place
• Verify and retain identification documents for tenants
• Know exactly who is occupying the premises
• Know who is paying the rent and investigate where payments are made by someone other than the named tenant
• Seek legal advice before permitting assignments or subletting arrangements
• Include clear provisions allowing action to be taken where criminal activity is identified
• Respond promptly to concerns raised by trading standards, police or other enforcement agencies

Davina Walkin, Oxfordshire County Council’s Trading Standards Operations Manager, said: " The overwhelming majority of landlords want to do the right thing and would be extremely concerned to learn that premises they own were being used for organised criminality. We encourage landlords to act quickly when concerns are raised.

“Where we inform a landlord that criminal activity is taking place from a property they own, we expect those concerns to be taken seriously and acted upon without delay. Failing to act after receiving clear warnings may expose landlords to significant legal and financial risks."

Criminal groups often try to hide their involvement by using “ghost” directors, front companies, informal tenancy arrangements or third parties to pay rent.

Illegal tobacco is often sold at pocket money prices and avoids the safety, packaging and health warning requirements designed to protect consumers

Anyone who suspects illegal tobacco is being sold in their community can report it anonymously via the illegal tobacco hotline on 0300 999 6 999 or online at www.stop-illegal-tobacco.co.uk.

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Advice can be found at oxme.info and on the National Careers Service’s website, or through its helpline 0800 100 900.

Young people interested in apprenticeships can visit a number of websites for further information: oxme, Gov.UK or UCAS.

While those who haven’t got the grades needed for their planned next steps and may be rethinking their college or sixth form options, the council encourages them to speak to their school’s careers officer, form tutor or head of year.

Students can also contact Activate Learning, Abingdon and Witney College or Henley College if further education is a preferred option.

Councillor Sean Gaul, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Well done to students who have received their desired results. However, regardless of how well you’ve done, the big question will now be ‘what do I do next?’

“Some students will have decided; perhaps staying in education, beginning an apprenticeship or other type of training, or straight into a job. However, for others, it will be a time of reflection and possibly a need to adjust plans.

“Luckily, there are many choices, and support is available through a number of services that offer help for young people.

“I’d like to thank the many educational professionals who have taught and mentored our young people during their time in Oxfordshire’s schools and colleges.”

Your Oxfordshire

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As a result, Oxfordshire County Council is temporarily limiting the number of these items it can accept at its household waste recycling centres (HWRCs).

The council has written to government to ask for action to be taken.

Residents booking a fridge or freezer slot will see the daily availability online up to one week in advance, rather than the normal two-week window. Other materials and HWRC bookings are not impacted by this.

Households will be limited to one fridge or freezer booking every three months, although they can bring up to two of these items with each booking.

The council has also asked Oxfordshire’s district and city councils to make similar temporary restrictions on the collection of fridges and freezers to their bulky waste services. Residents will need to check the situation in their area with their district or city council.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “We are exploring every avenue to address the backlog and support residents to continue recycling. I have written to the government to suggest steps they could take to alleviate the situation at a national level.

“Unfortunately, our capacity for treatment nationally has been reduced by a third and we have now had to introduce temporary restrictions at our HWRCs to help manage a growing backlog as we seek to maintain the service for residents.

“We would also like to thank residents for their understanding and working with us through this nationally challenging period.”

People are reminded they can use retailer takeback schemes when buying a new appliance or resell or donate working units. Retailers must offer a like-for-like collection service, although they may charge for collection from the home.

Last week, Oxfordshire County Council announced it was temporarily stopping accepting the items from people living outside the county to prioritise Oxfordshire residents.

All the measures will be kept under constant review, and the council will make existing customers aware of any updates through the HWRC booking system.

Customers are reminded to book a slot online on the council’s website before visiting their HWRC.

Residents without internet access can book slots by phone by contacting the council’s customer service centre on 01865 519800 between 8.45am - 5pm, Monday - Thursday, and 8.45am - 4pm on Fridays.

Oxfordshire customers are also reminded to bring proof of address with them when visiting an HWRC – such as a driving licence or recent utility or council tax bill – as visitors from outside the county will be charged £15.

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From 21 September, Oxfordshire County Council will be carrying out traffic signal installation and improvement work to Islip Bridge to keep it safe, improve pedestrian access and reduce unsuitable through‑traffic in the village.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, said: “The work is needed because the bridge has deteriorated due to higher traffic volumes, including heavier vehicles. Action is required to protect the bridge and ensure safe use for everyone.

“We appreciate that the scheme is likely to cause significant disruption, but we will endeavour to complete the work as safely and quickly as possible.”

The first phase, from 21-25 September, will involve temporary traffic signals for preparation works.

Phase two, from 28 September - 20 November, involves the full closure of Islip Bridge to all motor vehicles, including buses. A signed diversion route will be in place, although pedestrian and cyclist access will be maintained at all times.

The work will include the installation of permanent three-way traffic signals controlling vehicle movements across Islip Bridge; narrowing the carriageway to three metres to protect the bridge structure; installing a new 1.5 metre-wide footway on the west side of the bridge; and traffic calming on the southern approach.

Drainage repairs, resurfacing, footway improvements and new road markings will also be carried out, while Mill Street will be made one-way in advance of the scheme.

Staff will be present at either end of the bridge during the closure to manage safety and provide assistance.

Access to nearby properties and businesses will be accommodated where possible, although short delays may occur.

During the bridge closure, the H5 bus service between Bicester and the John Radcliffe Hospital will serve Islip from the north and then follow the diversion via Kidlington Road, Bicester Road, A40, to Barton and vice versa. 

A shuttle service will operate between Barton and the bus stop on the south side of the bridge.

The work was scheduled to take place after the summer harvest period, when agricultural traffic flows are lower. This helps reduce the impact on the surrounding road network, supports local communities and helps reduce the risk of delays.

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