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.

Cllr 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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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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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.”

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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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Academics, policymakers and community leaders in Oxfordshire came together on 15 July to celebrate the success and share insights and findings from the third Local Policy Lab Fellowship programme.

Supported and introduced by the Local Policy Lab’s Chief Scientific Advisors, the current cohort of 16 Fellows shared their project plans, research and outcomes at a showcase at the Blavatnik School of Government.

The Local Policy Lab, an alliance between Oxfordshire County Council, the University of Oxford and Oxford Brookes University. It gives students and researchers the chance to work with local communities and understand how policy affects people in Oxfordshire.

Professor Adam Briggs, Deputy Director of Public Health at Oxfordshire County Council and programme policy partner, said: “One of the most rewarding aspects of this programme is seeing students get out of the classroom to embrace the complexity of local government, including the changing landscape of local government reorganisation, and deliver projects that provide really practical ways forward for us to better understand and meet the needs of local communities.

“By exploring questions that matter to people’s everyday lives, from care and support to employment, skills and children’s early years, the fellows are helping us build stronger evidence for decisions that can make a real difference to people across Oxfordshire.”

Aileen Marshall-Brown, Head of Engagement for the Social Sciences Division, University of Oxford, said: “For the fellows, this is an opportunity to apply their research skills to real policy questions, learn more about how evidence is used in practice, and work across institutional and professional boundaries.”

This year’s research projects brought together knowledge from many areas, including psychology, public policy, education, computing and law, and looked at important local issues such as adult social care, children’s early years, green skills, employment and more:

• Measuring What Matters: Identifying Practical Approaches to Evaluating Community Capacity Grants for Grassroot Organisations, by Freya Cole Norton and Ishbel Anderson

• Beyond the Front Door: Equity and Experience in Adult Social Care in OCC, Belen Tomic Perez and Ruben Moss-Keys

• Beyond Counting Conversations: Developing a Meaningful Evaluation Framework for Making Every Contact Count (MECC) in Oxfordshire, by Neha Bhuvarahan and Nandini Bohra

• Mapping Green-Skills Provision Across Oxfordshire, by Khin Oo Thazin and Anna Luiza Barbosa

• Understanding the Impact of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) on Young People's Engagement in Education, Employment and Training, by Nafisa Salsabil Zaman and Valter Manuel Gomes Neto

• Making the Invisible Visible: The Assessment of Harmful Parental Conflict in Children's Services, by Cameron Tan and Charlotte Mason

• Towards Meaningful Outcomes for Families, Children & the System: Evaluating the Adult-Facing Practitioner Role in Domestic Abuse Interventions, by Raquel de Almeida Lima and Otilia Rose-Marie Meden

• Best Start in Life – Good Levels of Development in Oxfordshire, by Pippa Naegeli-Evans and Yasmin Arnould

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That is why Oxfordshire County Council is acting.

We are already leading the way on clean transport. Oxfordshire has one of the country's largest fleets of electric buses, helping to cut carbon emissions while making our air cleaner and reducing noise pollution. The progress has been recognised nationally, with Oxfordshire now described as a leader on clean air.

We are also helping residents reduce their own emissions and their energy bills. Through the Warm Homes: Local Grant programme, eligible households can receive free energy-saving improvements, including insulation, solar panels and heat pumps. More than 100 households have already benefited—including a Witney family who have had solar panels and a battery installed at no cost. (Oxfordshire News)

But the transition to a low-carbon economy has to work for communities too. We are working with partners across Oxfordshire to develop a framework that could allow communities hosting large renewable energy projects to share in the benefits—including through community payments and opportunities for shared ownership. (Oxfordshire News)

We are also changing the way the council itself operates. This summer Oxfordshire became the first local authority in England to introduce a dual-fuel hydrogen and hydrotreated vegetable oil highways maintenance vehicle. It is a practical example of how we can reduce emissions from the vehicles needed to keep our roads running. (Oxfordshire News)

Climate action isn't just about reducing carbon. It is about restoring the natural systems that protect us. Oxfordshire's Local Nature Recovery Strategy provides an ambitious, evidence-led plan to restore and reconnect habitats across the county, helping nature recover while making our landscapes more resilient to flooding and climate change. (Oxfordshire News)

And we are making our roads and communities better places to walk, cycle and live. Our new Quiet Lanes programme will create safer routes for walking, wheeling, cycling and horse riding where there is local support, reducing through traffic and making rural roads calmer and safer. (Oxfordshire News)

None of this means the job is done. Far from it. The climate crisis demands that we keep going—and sometimes that means making difficult decisions.

But when people ask what Oxfordshire County Council is actually doing about climate change, the answer is simple: a great deal.

We can tackle climate change while improving people's lives, cutting household bills, protecting nature and creating healthier communities. That is the future we are working to build—and Oxfordshire is determined to lead the way.

Help is on offer about continuing in education to seeking employment or training from key and trusted organisations.

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 necessary for higher education or their university of choice, there are options. Students can access key advice from UCAS or can read the education hub blog on Gov.UK.

Councillor Sean Gaul, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “Results day is always a big moment for young people and regardless of how well you’ve done, for many the big question will now be ‘what do I do next?’

“Some students will have a clear path forward. However, for others, it will be a time of reflection, perhaps adjusting plans, or for some who decided to have a break from the moment they finished their final lesson or exam; now it’s time to consider their options.

“Luckily, there are many choices available, from higher education, like university, to beginning work, starting a career on an apprenticeship or embarking on a training programme.

“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.”

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All but the most westerly stretches of Oxfordshire were previously included in this warning. The Met Office extended this further west to cover the whole county and beyond.

Weather forecasts

The Met Office issues weather warnings when severe weather is expected. These give an indication of problematic weather that may be on its way to Oxfordshire

Advice in hot weather

The government provides the following advice on how to stay safe during hot weather. Anyone can become unwell if they get too hot. However, some people are at higher risk.

It is important to follow this guidance so that you are prepared for hot weather and can take action to cool yourself and your home. The NHS offers additional advice .

Heatwaves may increase the likelihood of seizures in people with epilepsy. The Epilepsy Society has some useful information on managing epilepsy during heat.

Water safety advice in hot weather

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has water safety advice related to avoiding getting into difficulty in the county’s waterways during the hot weather.

Road and driving conditions

If any roads are affected during this period of extreme heat they will be listed on our road closures in severe weather webpage. National Highways are offering travel advice in hot weather.

Advice from district councils

This includes information on work undertaken with the homeless.

• Vale of White Horse District Council

• South Oxfordshire District Council

• Oxford City Council

• Cherwell District Council

Thames Water incidents

Thames Water regularly updates its list of water related incidents in the region.

Power outages

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks list power outages at any one moment.  You can zoom in and out of the map on this page or search by postcode.

Oxfordshire County Council, which operates the county’s seven HWRCs, said it would temporarily stop accepting the items from people living outside the county in order to prioritise Oxfordshire residents.

The measure reflects a nationwide shortage of specialist facilities able to process fridges and freezers.

This has created a significant backlog across the sector, with some councils around the country suspending acceptance of all fridges and freezers at their HWRCs.

Oxfordshire County Council’s targeted approach is intended to reduce incoming tonnage and protect limited storage capacity, while maintaining the service for Oxfordshire households.

The HWRC booking system has been adjusted so that non-Oxfordshire customers can no longer select fridges or freezers when making a booking, and customers with existing bookings will also be contacted to advise them of the temporary restriction.

The situation will be kept under close review and the council will continue discussions with its contractor and disposal outlets.

Customers are reminded to book a slot online on Oxfordshire County Council’s website before visiting their HWRC. Bookings are available up to two weeks in advance or 30 minutes prior, subject to availability.

Residents without internet access can book slots over the telephone 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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As highways authority, the council said it would issue fines and other fees – likely to total tens of thousands of pounds – against the company for closing the slip road in Marston without a valid permit, leading to an increase in heavy traffic travelling through the villages of Elsfield and Woodeaton.

By failing to obtain the necessary permit and working outside the agreed statutory process, the company prevented the council from managing the wider impact of the roadworks to minimise disruption.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “It’s completely unacceptable that they did this unilaterally and without agreement.

“We, as highways authority, need to agree and schedule roadworks in a planned and considered way and I will be challenging this company about why this happened.

“It has caused immense disruption to residents who have seen heavy goods vehicles, double decker buses and a huge amount of traffic diverted on to a single-track road through their tiny villages.

“This must not happen again, and we will be making that perfectly clear to the utility company involved while also making sure that this work is completed as soon as possible.”

The council has taken formal enforcement action in relation to the permit breach. A fixed penalty notice has been issued in accordance with national regulations – the highest level of penalty ordinarily available for this category of permit offence.

In May, the council’s lane rental scheme came into force – a system which allows it to charge companies up to £2,500 per day for working on the busiest roads at peak traffic times.

As the work took place on a designated lane rental road during periods where charging applies, the firm is expected to face fees of around £60,000.

Council officers will continue discussions with the company to ensure that appropriate improvements are made and that a similar situation does not arise again.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Oxfordshire has been recognised nationally for its work to build a healthier, fairer and more sustainable food system, after becoming one of only seven places in the UK to win the Sustainable Food Places Gold Award.

The award celebrates places that have embedded food in local policy and taken cross-sector action to tackle environmental, social and economic food challenges.

Oxfordshire County Council has worked closely with Good Food Oxfordshire, the partnership driving sustainable food change across the county, and other partners to support this work, which aims to make healthy, affordable and sustainable food easier for everyone to access.

Good Food Oxfordshire applied for the award earlier this year, following a silver award in 2023.

Jenny Ekelund, CEO of Good Food Oxfordshire, said: “Winning the Gold Award is an incredible validation of the years spent weaving together local businesses, councils, community groups and farmers across Oxfordshire. It shows what happens when a whole county commits to working as a team.

“This achievement showcases gold-worthy sustainability work being done in all corners of Oxfordshire, from grassroots community projects and local farms to academic research and local government policy. This award belongs to everyone who has grown, served, and advocated for better food in Oxfordshire.”

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “Good food is about much more than what is on our plates. It is about supporting local producers, reducing our impact on the environment, helping communities to thrive and making it easier for everyone to access healthy, affordable food, particularly those most vulnerable to food insecurity.

“We are proud to work closely with Good Food Oxfordshire and partners across the county. Together, we are showing what can be achieved when councils, communities, businesses, farmers and the voluntary sector work towards a shared goal.”

As part of the rigorous application process, Good Food Oxfordshire highlighted two areas of exceptional achievement that set Oxfordshire apart: community-centred research through the Oxfordshire Living Lab (FEAST) project and its collaborative, solutions-led approach with Oxfordshire County Council.

Chloe Smee, Sustainable Food Places Partnership Lead and one of the Gold Award assessors, added: “Good Food Oxfordshire has shown what a mature, trusted food partnership can achieve. The care invested in building participative, cross-sector governance has been immense. That often invisible work of holding relationships together pays off when it matters most, ensuring Oxfordshire has an active, resilient network ready to respond whenever opportunities or challenges arise.”

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One fire engine, crewed by four firefighters, and one 4x4 vehicle crewed by two firefighters are being sent to assist Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service in responding to the incident.

While these resources are deployed, arrangements remain in place to maintain emergency response across Oxfordshire as normal.

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An Oxford convenience store is set to have its alcohol licence revoked following a review by Oxford City Council’s licensing sub-committee brought about by Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards team.

At a hearing on Monday 27 July, councillors considered the licence held by Baweja Superstore, 334-335 Abingdon Road, Oxford, after being presented with evidence relating to the storage and supply of illegal tobacco, repeated breaches of tobacco display requirements, and concerns about the storage of fireworks at the premises.

After hearing representations from trading standards and the legal representative of the business, Oxford City Councillor James Taylor, chair of the licensing sub-committee, delivered the decision to revoke the premises licence.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for public health and inequalities, said: “I would like to thank our trading standards officers for their vigilance and dedication in protecting Oxfordshire residents and supporting legitimate businesses.

“This decision sends a clear message that illegal tobacco and other unlawful activity linked to licensed premises will not be tolerated. We will continue to support robust enforcement action against those who undermine public health, community safety and honest traders.”

The application from the county council’s trading standards team detailed a series of concerns identified during an inspection on 29 October last year. Officers seized 89 packs of illegal cigarettes, including 55 confirmed as counterfeit and 34 identified as non-duty paid.

Officers also found tobacco products on open display and fireworks stored in a manner described by the explosives officer as “very poor”.

Further evidence presented to the licensing committee included previous enforcement action involving Tamanpreet Singh, the sole director, premises licence holder and designated premises supervisor of Baweja Superstore.

This related to the supply of illegal vapes at another business in Windsor, which led to a prosecution, and the recent seizure of illegal tobacco products from a separate shop in Hertfordshire, where he was also the premises licence holder.

Davina Walkin, Oxfordshire County Council’s Trading Standards operations manager, added: “I’m proud of the work our officers have done in this case, and we will continue to pursue those who undermine legitimate businesses and put consumers at risk. Businesses involved in the illegal tobacco trade can expect us to take firm action.”

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

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Businesses and consumers across Oxfordshire are being warned about the risks of buying and selling counterfeit toys after the county council’s trading standards team seized a number of fake items during a recent inspection.

The team found fruit shaped squishy stress relievers and squeeze balls that were missing vital labelling information. Products marketed as NeeDoh Nice Cubes were also seized as counterfeit copies of the popular toy.

The seized toys were not labelled with the details of a UK manufacturer or importer.

Davina Walkin, Oxfordshire County Council’s Trading Standards Operations Manager, said: “Toys that are untraceable, with no UK manufacturer or importer details, mean there is no one to take legal responsibility for the product.

“These items often bypass mandatory safety testing and have been found to contain dangerous substances such as phthalates and benzene. If a toy cannot be traced back to a responsible UK business, it should not be on sale.

“We are reminding retailers that they must carry out proper checks on the products they stock and make sure toys have the correct markings, warnings and manufacturer or importer details.”

All toys sold in the UK should be labelled with:

• UKCA or CE safety markings
• Details of a UK manufacturer or importer, including name and address information
• Clear warnings and instructions

Councillor Kate Gregory, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “It can be really easy as a parent to be drawn into buying a bargain toy for our children, especially as we try to keep up with the latest trends. But sometimes these can be too good to be true. Fake toys can lack important safety features and information that are required by law and, in some cases, could be harmful.

“We would urge parents and carers to check toys carefully before buying, particularly from unfamiliar sellers or online marketplaces, and to report anything they are worried about so our trading standards team can investigate.”

Anyone who has concerns about toys they have purchased or seen on sale can contact trading standards by calling the Citizens Advice national consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

Details of how to spot a fake NeeDoh can be found online.

Information on product safety alerts and recalls for toys and other consumer goods can be found on the Office for Product Safety and Standards’ website.

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An Oxford man has been fined more than £2,000 after pleading guilty to several tobacco offences following an investigation by Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards team.

Sami Shridi, 47, of Marshall Road, Oxford, pleaded guilty at Reading Magistrates' Court on Friday 24 July to offences under tobacco legislation relating to waterpipe products, commonly known as shisha.

The court imposed fines totalling £506, a victim surcharge of £202 and prosecution costs of £1,625, making a total of £2,333 payable by Mr Shridi.

It also ordered the forfeiture of all seized tobacco products.

The prosecution followed an inspection of Thirst Bar, Park End Street, Oxford, where Mr Shridi operated a shisha business in the garden area.

During a visit in March 2025, officers seized more than eight kilograms of illegal shisha tobacco, which failed to comply with legal packaging requirements and was non-duty paid.

Officers found containers of tobacco products that did not carry the required health warnings and referred to smells or flavourings, which is prohibited by law.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: "Tobacco products are heavily regulated for good reason. Health warnings, prohibitions on flavours and restrictions on advertising all exist to protect public health and reduce the harm caused by smoking.

“These rules are there to protect people, and this case shows why it is important that businesses take their responsibilities seriously.”

The investigation also identified social media posts from the bar promoting tobacco products, which has been prohibited in the UK for many years as part of measures to reduce smoking and protect public health.

Trading standards had previously provided written and face-to-face advice to Mr Shridi on tobacco legislation and compliance following earlier seizures in 2019 and 2020.

Davina Walkin, Oxfordshire County Council’s Trading Standards Operations Manager, added: “Businesses that choose to ignore these requirements gain an unfair advantage over those who comply with the law. We were particularly concerned that detailed advice had already been provided on the same issues, yet non-compliant products continued to be supplied and promoted. We will continue to investigate and take action where businesses fail to meet their legal responsibilities."

Trading standards is responsible for enforcing a range of tobacco legislation, including laws relating to advertising, packaging and health warnings.

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

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The announcement came days after the council wrote to the government asking for financial help for the sector following the local authority’s reluctant decision to raise prices of the multi-operator Oxfordshire-wide daily and weekly MyBus ticket.

The government’s decision to increase the cap from £2 to £3 from 1 January 2025 had a direct impact on the need to increase the MyBus prices. It meant that the savings offered by the MyBus tickets became more attractive, increasing sales, while also increasing the cost per ticket to the council.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Following my letter calling for the £2 bus fare cap to be reinstated, I am delighted that the government has listened and reversed the previous Prime Minister's decision. This will make bus travel more affordable for thousands of people.

“If we are serious about tackling climate change and reducing Oxfordshire's chronic congestion, buses must be an affordable, convenient and comfortable alternative to the car. Reinstating the £2 fare cap is a welcome step in the right direction.

“There is still more to do. We need continued investment in more frequent services, better reliability and improved infrastructure, which we are working tirelessly with our operators on delivering through the Oxfordshire Enhanced Partnership, if we are to encourage many more people to choose the bus. But making fares cheaper is an important part of that journey.”

Because the new fare cap won't come in until 1 January 2027, Oxfordshire County Council is unable to immediately reduce the MyBus fare but will now be able to review the pricing structure next year.

The previous national £2 fare cap, which began on 1 January 2023, was popular in Oxfordshire with nine county bus providers taking part in the scheme.

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From Monday 27 July, Oxfordshire County Council will start refurbishing Rose Hill roundabout traffic signals junction, which links the A4142 eastern bypass and Oxford Road between Rose Hill and Littlemore.

The project, due to last up to eight weeks, is being funded by a government grant for the council’s bus service improvement plan (BSIP).

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “This is the first refurbishment of this important interchange since 1995, and the upgrade is going to deliver a significant improvement in the roundabout’s efficiency and the flow of the ring road.

“This is another clear demonstration of bus service investment in the county and our efforts to speed up bus journeys and make buses a more convenient and attractive mode of travel.”

The work, which will take place overnight to reduce disruption, will be carried out in two phases.

The existing poles will be replaced, and a new signal controller will control the intelligent bus priority function, allowing improvements to bus journey times

New extra low voltage (ELV) equipment will be installed with ELV LED signal heads which, as well as greatly reducing the power consumption and carbon footprint of the site, will reduce hazards in the event of accidental damage to the equipment.

The upgraded junctions are equipped with technology which detects the imminent arrival of buses and then changes the phasing to reduce delays for buses and keep them on time.

The countywide programme has been successful in obtaining over £2.1 million in bus grants from the Department for Transport’s BSIP / Bus Grant in recent years, which has supported the refurbishment of 31 traffic signal junctions. The ongoing programme for 2026/27 to 2029/30 has been allocated almost £1.5m.

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Oxfordshire County Council and its principal highways contractor M Group will be upgrading approximately 32 surface inlay sites, involving over 85,000 square metres of road, and three in-depth carriageway structural maintenance schemes, covering 20,838 square metres.

The programme is designed to renew worn and deteriorated road surfaces, improve driving conditions and reduce the need for more reactive repairs in the future. It also supports the council's commitment to reducing carbon emissions from highway maintenance activities.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repairs, said: “Following the extreme wet and cold weather we experienced last year, we will be using the summer months to get our roads ready to withstand the worst of the winters to come.

“This vital new programme will extend the life of roads by preventing water getting in, reducing the need for frequent repairs, enhancing skid resistance for safer travel, and smoothing out road surfaces.

“Prevention is better than cure. I know from my own division that the roads that were least affected by potholes this winter were the ones that had been resurfaced most recently.”

Richard Lovewell, M Group’s Business Director, said: “Resurfacing is a vital pillar of highway maintenance, alongside preventative measures such as surface dressing and reactive repairs. We’re proud to be once again partnering with Oxfordshire County Council to deliver a comprehensive package of resurfacing.

“By investing in resurfacing at the right time, we can extend the life of the carriageway, improve safety for road users and help prevent more costly repairs in the future.”

In a county first, one of the structural maintenance schemes will incorporate ACLA, an innovative carbon-negative aggregate-like additive. The technology helps maintain the road's structural integrity while permanently locking carbon into the carriageway, contributing to a lower-carbon approach to highway maintenance.

Major roads to be resurfaced include:

• A44 Worcester Road, Chipping Norton (3 - 7 August)
• A40, Swinbrook (5 August)
• A361 Southam Road, Banbury (24 August - September)
• A361 Horsefair, Banbury (27 August - 11 September)
• A361 Southam Road/Horsefair crossroads (9 - 10 September)
• A40, Milton Common (21 - 22 September)
• Thames Street, Oxford (23 September to 24 September)
• Horspath Driftway, Oxford (28 September - 16 October).

Longer resurfacing schemes include:

• Upavon Way, Carterton (17 August - 25 September)
• Lower Icknield Way, Chinnor (29 September - 2 October)
• A44 Cross Hands (24 August - 6 November).

These dates include preliminary work which will usually take place under temporary traffic lights, ahead of the main surfacing work which will require road closures. To minimise public disruption, the surfacing work takes place overnight wherever possible.

All dates are subject to alteration due to the weather.

Motorists are asked to observe the diversion routes which will be in operation while the work takes place.

Updated details about the programme, including a map showing where and when the work will be taking place, is available on the council’s website.

The latest resurfacing work follows the council’s latest £8 million surface dressing road maintenance programme, most of which was completed between April and June.

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The reopening of Botley Road was planned for the end of August when the programme, involving the upgrading of Oxford Station and local infrastructure, was reviewed and amended in January 2025 to prioritise the reopening of the road to traffic.

However, during excavation work relating to drainage for the new road, three minor gas leaks were identified on part of the gas network, owned by SGN. The pipe was not damaged by the Network Rail work.

In the interests of safety, and to avoid disruptive and unplanned work to repair potential gas leaks in the future, Network Rail has agreed to accommodate work by gas distribution company SGN to replace a section of their network beneath Botley Road, as well as completing existing Network Rail work.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Management, said: “This is frustrating news for residents and businesses who have endured this closure for far too long as it is.

“We will continue to work with Network Rail and other partners to ensure the road can be reopened at the earliest possible time.

“As Network Rail has not released a revised opening date for Botley Road, we currently cannot say when our traffic filter trial will start and the temporary congestion charge will end. We will make an announcement in due course, once we can be certain about the reopening.”

Earlier this month the council announced that the traffic filter trial would replace Oxford’s temporary congestion charge on 14 September. Clearly this will not happen now, as the traffic filter trial will only begin after Botley Road has reopened.

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The programme was agreed by Oxfordshire County Council thanks to information gathered during a project to inspect and clean every highway gully in the county last year.

There are around 147,000 gullies across Oxfordshire. In April 2025, the council launched a programme to inspect every gully and catchpit in the county over 12 months.

Working with partners M Group and Drainline, all gullies were inspected and 135,254 were cleaned at least once – around 92 per cent of the total.

Some could not be cleaned, despite repeat visits, due to parked cars, or issues such as seized lids, and have been flagged for follow-up visits.

Others were found to have more complex defects and have been added to the latest programme for further investigation and repair, confirmed by Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repairs, on Thursday.

The additional £4m funding – taking the total investment to £9.42m – will help increase the number of drainage infrastructure repairs and investigations over the next two years and ensure that routine gully cleansing work is as effective as possible.

Cllr Leffman said: “Given the wet winter we had last year, and the extensive flooding that it caused, it’s important to maintain and clear gullies and make sure that broken infrastructure is replaced.

“We have a lot of broken gullies, due to many years of under investment. We know that by repairing them we will significantly improve drainage, particularly over the winter period. That’s why we have invested £4m over the next two years on gully infrastructure.

“This work will help to minimise network disruption, protect communities and property, and support safe, reliable travel. The programme will also prioritise preventative interventions, reduce reactive maintenance costs and strengthen our ability to respond to increasingly severe weather events.”

The programme will also see higher risk areas cleaned annually and others on a two-year cycle. Priorities are based on risk, using data from last year’s countywide programme, flood mapping and flood investigation reports.

The 2025-26 programme removed around 2,346 tonnes of waste from the county’s gullies.

The material was processed through a zero to landfill specialist waste recycling facility, where water was treated and discharged if not required for the wash plant, and sand and aggregate was recovered and re-sold.

Rubbish was sent to a materials recovery facility, followed by recycling or energy recovery, and nothing was knowingly sent to landfill.

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Oxfordshire County Council will carry out drainage improvements on Buttercross Lane from 3 – 28 August. The road will be shut from its junction with Willowbank while the work is carried out.

As the route is the only means of vehicular access, traffic management including marshals will be in place to manage the movement of vehicles and pedestrians.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, said: “Residents have had to put up with flooding at this location for far too long due to a lack of proper maintenance by the developer prior to the road’s adoption by the council as highways authority.

“Officers have worked hard to come up with a solution to this problem, which was far from straightforward to resolve. Once completed, this should significantly reduce the risk of the road flooding whenever there is heavy rain.

“Although marshals will be present while the work takes place, there may be times when it is not possible for people to gain immediate passage through the site. When this happens, we would ask for patience and co-operation from the public.”

Before the project begins, survey work will take place to identify the depth of underground apparatus throughout the site. This element could result in some delays for those wishing access through the site.

Warning signs will be installed at the junction of Station Lane and Buttercross Lane two weeks before the start date.

During the work, one side of the carriageway will be left open, when feasible to do so, to allow residents to move through the site.

Temporary ramps will be installed on the kerb line to assist larger vehicles that need to travel through the site. This operation will be done under the guidance of one of the marshals.

Overnight barriers will be installed at the site while the work takes place, although one lane will be left open to enable the public to exit and enter Buttercross Lane.

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The range of MyBus Oxfordshire tickets, which offer passengers daily or weekly travel around the county, covering most routes and operators for a fixed price, will see prices go up from 1 August 2026.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “MyBus has been a huge success. I do not want to change it. Government financial cuts are the only reason we are considering this unpalatable step.

“The revised fares will help ensure MyBus can continue to provide a convenient multi-operator ticket for passengers across Oxfordshire.

“These price changes are necessary to ensure that this important scheme can continue, in light of its growing popularity and the limited budget that Oxfordshire County Council has, to maintain operator participation.

“However, I will be writing to the secretary of state for transport to seek a better way forward for the future of MyBus.”

Since launching in 2024, MyBus has provided simple, flexible and great-value travel across Oxfordshire. The scheme has seen strong uptake – particularly among young people – and has helped residents and visitors make several hundreds of thousand journeys by bus.

Passenger feedback consistently highlights the convenience, flexibility and savings offered by being able to travel across multiple bus operators with a single ticket.

However, the government’s decision to increase the maximum single bus fare cap from £2 to £3 from 1 January 2025 meant that the savings offered by the MyBus tickets became more attractive, increasing sales, while also increasing the cost per ticket to Oxfordshire County Council. The initial budget for the scheme has now been exhausted, meaning that price increases are required to maintain the availability of the tickets.

The new prices will be:

• MyBus adult day ticket: £8.50 (previously £6.50)
• MyBus young person (5-18 inclusive) day ticket: £5.50 (previously £3.50)
• MyBus adult weekly ticket: £34 (previously £30)
• MyBus young person weekly ticket: £24 (previously £17).

Anyone affected by the changes may find that some operators’ own tickets – such as day, week or period products offered directly by bus companies – are cheaper for their journeys, particularly if they are only travelling on buses run by one company, or within the Oxford SmartZone. Check with your local bus operator for the best value ticket for your travel needs.

In addition, the government’s Great British Summer Savings scheme is expected to result in free August bus travel for five to 15 year olds, meaning that families can continue to enjoy low-cost travel over the summer holidays.

The council has also made a commitment to introduce a new 28-day MyBus ticket for both adults and young people from 1 April 2027 as part of its role within the Oxfordshire Bus Enhanced Partnership, a collaboration between the local authority and the county’s bus companies.

It was also agreed to consult with youth organisations within Oxfordshire on the emerging OXBus Plan 2040 and enhanced partnership, with particular focus on multi-operator tickets and bus travel costs.

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Partners from across Oxfordshire came together at an event last Friday, 10 July, to share learning, celebrate community led action and strengthen efforts to tackle health inequalities across the county.

The event, held at Unipart House in Oxford, also marked the launch of Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health Annual Report 2026. The report reflects on progress since the inaugural report back in 2020, and highlights the importance of partnership working, community insight and local action in improving health outcomes.

Bringing together colleagues from local government, health organisations, and the voluntary and community sector, the event focused on how services and communities can work together to reduce inequalities and improve people’s health and wellbeing.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “This annual report shows both the progress we have made over the past five years and the importance of continuing to work together to tackle health inequalities in Oxfordshire.

“While there is more to do, it is encouraging to see the difference strong partnership working can make in supporting healthier lives and stronger communities.

“The launch event was a valuable opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved so far, share learning, and renew our collective focus on the work ahead.”

Speakers reflected on the progress made over the past five years, as well as the challenges that remain, while also exploring Oxfordshire’s Marmot Place journey so far, practical examples of community led work, and the growing role of Community Health Development Officers in helping local people shape solutions that meet the needs of their communities.

The event also looked at how district councils, voluntary and community organisations, and local partners are contributing to place-based approaches that build on community strengths and gave participants the opportunity to share ideas on how to build on this work in future.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “I was pleased to welcome colleagues and partners from district and city councils, healthcare settings, and voluntary and community organisations to the launch event in Oxford.

“My annual report is an important opportunity to look back on five years of work to reduce health inequalities in Oxfordshire and to be honest about where challenges remain.

“Five years on from my first annual report, ‘Some are more equal than others’, it shows that change is possible, but it does not happen quickly or by chance. It takes sustained action, strong local partnerships, and a clear focus on the communities most affected by poorer health outcomes.

“The learning shared during the event will help inform the next phase of this work across the county, as partners continue working together to improve health and wellbeing for all residents.”

Back in 2019, the Index of Multiple Deprivation data identified ten communities in Oxfordshire with small areas among the 20 per cent most deprived nationally. The most recent data, published in October 2025, shows this has fallen to eight.

Find out more on the Director of Public Health Annual Report website.

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The Oxfordshire County Council project was carried out by M Group and forms part of wider work to improve transport connections in the area, supporting more reliable journeys for residents, businesses and those travelling through.

A site visit to mark the occasion, was attended by MP for Witney, Charlie Maynard, and Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, Cllr Liz Leffman, as well as representatives from local councils, senior county council officers and the project delivery team.

Speaking on site, Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, said: “This project has been a long time coming, and residents have advocated for it for years. We are delighted to have been able to deliver this scheme on time and in budget and seeing it in use this morning has been a joy.

“This is an important project, and the improvements here will provide Witney with better connections to and from the A40, taking traffic out of the town centre, supporting active travel, and benefitting communities, businesses and visitors for many years to come.”

Charlie Maynard, MP for Witney said: “I'm delighted that the Shores Green junction is now open. After decades of waiting, the collaboration between a number of councils resulted in getting the necessary funding and driving the project to completion. Well done to everyone involved.

Councillor Ruth Smith, Leader of Witney Town Council said: "This junction means a great deal to Witney residents. I first visited Witney on a 100 bus in the late 90s and was baffled by the junction. It's an anomaly that's needed fixing for decades.

“Thank you to all the councillors and officers who kept the call for it and the project alive and brought us to this point. I look forward to data on the impact it makes on traffic flow and on air quality. I hope we all find it less frustrating to visit the other side of town and to venture West more readily."

Mark Smith, senior project manager at M Group, who deliver the scheme on behalf of the county council added: “M Group is proud to have successfully delivered the Access to Witney scheme. This project demonstrates the value of a strong collaborative relationship between M Group and Oxfordshire County Council.

"By working together the team successfully achieved the project objectives, while maintaining a focus on safety, quality and minimising disruption to the travelling public. We are proud to have played our part in delivering lasting improvements for the local community.”

The £26.8-million scheme provides a new eastbound off-slip and westbound on-slip, enabling more direct access between Witney and the A40. The project has also delivered improvements for pathways, new crossings and upgraded drainage and signs.

The Access to Witney project was funded by Homes England via the Housing and Growth Deal fund, Section 106 developer contributions and traffic congestion improvement funds. Enabling works for the project began in February 2025, with construction starting later that spring.

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The new councils will be:

• Greater Oxford Council – covering Oxford and its immediate surroundings.
• Northern Oxfordshire Council – covering most of the existing Cherwell and West Oxfordshire districts.
• Ridgeway Council – covering most of the existing South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse districts, combined with West Berkshire.

Three proposals were presented to government in November 2025 by Oxfordshire and West Berkshire councils – a single county unitary, two unitary councils and three unitary councils.

These councils have been working together since the start of the year to plan and prepare for the future of council services, regardless of which option the government chose. This work has also been focused on ensuring services continue without disruption for residents.

Councillor Tim Bearder, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “I am deeply disappointed in the government’s decision to split Oxfordshire up into three unitary councils – it does not deliver on its vision to simplify and improve local government services.

“The three-council model does not meet the government’s criteria for scale, efficiency and financial resilience. It offers the lowest cost savings of all the proposals.

“We will also need three directors of adult social care, three for children’s social care for example, which increases costs and risks disruption to these high-performing critical services.

“We all have a responsibility to our residents to achieve the best outcomes we can for them, maintaining continuous service delivery as we transition and in the creation of any new councils.

“To do this, we will work together with our colleagues, partners and communities to keep championing Oxfordshire, collaborate effectively to do all we can to build the best possible future for our people and places.

“We will find a way forward to provide the stable foundation our communities and economy need to thrive.”

Each of the proposals submitted included fully costed options for the government to consider.

The government ran a statutory consultation in February 2026 on the options with local stakeholders, residents and businesses invited to have their say. The results of the consultation have been published today on the government’s website.

Over the next two years, the existing councils will continue working together to prepare for the new arrangements, keeping people informed as plans develop ahead of April 2028.

The full details of the three-unitary proposal can be found on 3councils.org

More information

The letter for government confirming the decision is available to read in full on the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government's website.

Key timeline

• Proposals submitted: 27 November 2025
• Public consultation: 5 February 2026 - 26 March 2026
• Government’s minded-to decision: 16 July 2026
  • The minded to decision is the government’s preferred, provisional decision before it’s put into law through a structural changes order (SCO).
• Structural changes order (SCO): Expected autumn 2026
  • An SCO is legislation that will officially end the existing two-tier county and district councils in Oxfordshire. We expect the legislation to be laid and agreed at this point but it won’t come fully into effect until vesting day.
• Elections for the new unitaries: May 2027.
  • After the elections shadow authorities will be created to plan the new councils, but they will not deliver services. They will focus on preparing for the future councils.
• Transition period: Expected late 2026 - March 2028.
• Vesting day: New council begins 1 April 2028.
  • The official go-live date when the new council takes over and legal powers, responsibilities and ownership transfers from the previous councils to the new one.

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Since the booking system began in January, 67 users have had their access blocked, saving the taxpayer thousands of pounds in disposal costs.

Customers must book a slot online on Oxfordshire County Council’s website before visiting their HWRC. Bookings are available up to two weeks in advance or 30 minutes prior, subject to availability.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “Household recycling centres are for household waste – not trade waste.

“Trader abuse of the HWRCs costs taxpayers thousands and undercuts legitimate traders who are paying to dispose of waste.

“The measures introduced earlier this year are preventing commercial waste from illegally entering HWRCs, ensuring taxpayers are not covering disposal costs and preventing unfair competition impacting legitimate trade waste operators.”

The council has been able to identify suspicious patterns of usage, including unusually high frequencies of visits, the use of multiple sites across the county, and activity inconsistent with normal household use.

This analysis has identified companies undertaking property clearance activities, handymen, professional gardeners and other businesses generating waste as part of their commercial operations.

One trader was found to have used the HWRC service more than 60 times in 2026, visiting all sites across Oxfordshire.

Where sufficient evidence is obtained that an individual is abusing the service, access to Oxfordshire’s HWRCs is blocked.

The figures were revealed in an update on the first five months since the changes were introduced at the HWRCs. Other changes included a requirement for customers to sort all their recyclable content, updates to the van and trailer permit scheme, and the introduction of a £15 charge for customers from outside the county to access Oxfordshire’s sites HWRCs.

The update also showed:

• Recycling, composting and reuse rates have increased month on month, driven by less waste being incinerated or landfilled, and more recycled
• Customers are bringing approximately 10kg more waste per visit than last year (increasing from about 45 to 55kg per visit).
• Over £130,000 was saved from February - April 2026, compared to the same period last year, mostly through avoided incineration and landfilling costs
• Over £10,000 was generated from the new out of county charges.

Although the number of visits is down 36 per cent compared to the same period last year, this reduction is thought to be driven by:

• Visitors delivering more waste across fewer visits
• Better prevention of trader abuse of the service
• Some non-Oxfordshire customers choosing to use facilities within their local authority area.

The county council and Oxfordshire’s district and city councils have been closely monitoring fly-tipping. Data does not indicate any new trends emerging since the changes were introduced, nor increases outside of normal ranges that may suggest the new HWRC policies are leading to more fly-tipping.

However, data will continue to be collected and analysed to ensure the best possible understanding of fly-tipping in Oxfordshire.

A wider review of the changes will be published in December 2026.

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People are being encouraged to help drive out organised crime by reporting vehicles used as mobile storage for illegal tobacco to Oxfordshire County Council’s trading standards team.

This comes after recent multi agency operations uncovered two such vehicles, with illegal tobacco seized from both.

Parked vehicles, also known as ‘stash cars’, are increasingly being used by criminals to store counterfeit cigarettes and hand rolling tobacco. They are typically left near local shops, allowing sellers to replenish stock in small amounts and avoid detection during trading standards inspections.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities said: “The sale of illegal tobacco disadvantages legitimate local businesses, undermines efforts to reduce smoking and funds wider organised crime gangs.

“Unregulated counterfeit products also pose a heightened health risk, as they bypass strict safety standards on fire safety and are often sold cheaply to children by criminals who do not care about age restrictions.”

Signs that a vehicle may be a ‘stash car’ include:

• Frequent and brief visits by individuals retrieving small bags or packages from the vehicle
• Vehicles parked for long periods near local convenience stores or vape shops that are regularly approached by staff
• Transactions taking place directly from the window or boot of a parked vehicle
• Vehicles that appear abandoned on private land, untaxed or without a valid MOT

Davina Walkin, Oxfordshire County Council’s Trading Standards Operations Manager, added: “If you see suspicious activity around vehicles near local shops, please tell us what you know. You can tell us anonymously. Your report can directly help keep our community safe and stub out the sale of these illegal products.”

Members of the public are urged not to confront suspected sellers, but to report any suspicious vehicle activity, including the make, model, registration number and location.

Anyone with information about the illegal sale of tobacco and nicotine products should call 0300 999 6 999 to report it anonymously or visit www.stop-illegal-tobacco.co.uk.

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The updated guidance, agreed by the council’s cabinet in April 2026, aimed to enable a move towards more ‘car free’ and ‘car light’ developments, where appropriate.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “If every new development is designed around the assumption that car ownership and car use should continue to grow unchecked, congestion will simply get worse and journeys will become less reliable for everyone.

“However, it’s essential that our approach commands broad support and can be delivered successfully in practice.”

Representations received by the council highlighted the complexity of balancing transport, climate, and housing objectives – particularly social housing – with the need to ensure that any guidance is both ambitious and capable of effective implementation through the planning system.

The council will continue to work closely with local planning authorities, developers, and other stakeholders to review the issues that have been raised and consider whether reasonable refinements can be made that support both housing delivery and shared transport and climate ambitions.

Cllr Epps added: “We remain concerned that the growth demands of central government will be unachievable and result in chaotic levels of congestion unless we do something to address future car use.  Developers are encouraged to concentrate on how to build more homes, not more car parks.

“By working creatively and collaboratively across the sector, we are confident we can develop an approach that supports sustainable travel while also enabling the delivery of the homes and communities Oxfordshire needs.”

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Children and young people are at the heart of ongoing efforts to create a fairer future for all in the county, as Oxfordshire County Council commits to acting on the findings of a recent report by the Institute of Health Equity, as part of becoming a Marmot Place.

The report, Starting stronger, fairer futures in Oxfordshire, sets out clear evidence that while people in Oxfordshire generally live longer and healthier lives than the national average, outcomes are not experienced equally, with significant differences between communities.

It brings together data alongside insight from local partners and communities and recognises the strong foundation of work already under way across Oxfordshire, while also noting that further action is needed to ensure that support reaches those who need it most and is delivered at the right scale.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “Oxfordshire is a county with many strengths, but this report outlines that not everyone has the same opportunities to live a healthy life.

“We welcome these findings. Tackling the inequalities highlighted in this report is a priority for this administration, and the evidence will help guide our next steps as we work with partners to reduce inequalities.

“Our aim is to ensure that everyone, regardless of where they live or their circumstances, has the chance to thrive.”

Matin Reeves, Chief Executive of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “This report is an important milestone in our shared ambition to tackle health inequalities across Oxfordshire. It shows clearly that while overall outcomes are strong, there are unacceptable differences between and within communities that we must address.

“We are committed to working with partners across health, education, the voluntary and community sector, and local businesses to build on existing efforts and turn the report’s recommendations into clear and deliverable actions.

“This includes a particular focus on ensuring every child has the best start in life, strengthening early intervention, and addressing the wider factors that influence health and wellbeing.

“By working together, we can build a fairer Oxfordshire where every child and family has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.”

Professor Sir Michael Marmot, Director of the UCL Institute of Health Equity, said: “Oxfordshire has shown real leadership by becoming a Marmot Place. The IHE is now working with nearly 70 places across the country, including the whole of Scotland and Wales. We are building up a wealth of evidence on how to implement the eight principles for greater health equity. The task now for Oxfordshire is to build on the strong work already under way and create the conditions that allow all local residents to flourish, equitably.”

Work is already under way to develop detailed action plans that will translate the report’s recommendations into practical steps. These will focus on improving outcomes for children, young people and families, and supporting healthier communities across the county.

Back in 2019, Index of Multiple Deprivation data identified ten communities in Oxfordshire with small areas in the 20 per cent most deprived nationally. In October 2025, the most recent data showed that this had reduced to eight.

More information

Oxfordshire is working with University College London’s Institute of Health Equity to understand the factors causing different health outcomes for our population. Health is impacted by many factors in life, such as having good quality homes, a stable income and good education, as well as lifestyle choices such as what we eat and how much exercise we take.  

Marmot places are local areas that adopt evidence-based principles and methodology developed by Sir Michael Marmot and his team, to tackle the causes of health inequalities.

Read the report in full by visiting the Institute of Health Equity's website.

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Over recent years, heatwaves have become increasingly frequent, posing significant risk to Oxfordshire residents in unsuitable housing. Without appropriate adaptations in homes, higher temperatures can increase the risk of heart attacks, stroke, lung disease and severe mental illness.

In summer 2025, there were 1,504 heat-associated deaths in the UK. The council believes that these deaths are unnecessary and avoidable. Now experts estimate that more than 2,700 people may have died due to heatwaves in England and Wales so far this year.

Under the Warm Homes Local Grant, the council currently receives funding from central government to install adaptations in homes to retain heat in winter. However, there is no funding specifically designed to support the retrofit of homes that suffer from overheating.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “England recorded its warmest June on record, with another heatwave hitting just two weeks later. This is not a one-off occurrence, but a new reality to which the UK must adapt.

“This is also a health inequalities issue, where those most at risk from heatwaves are often least able to afford effective home adaptations to prevent overheating, while also being more likely to have pre-existing health conditions, mobility limitations or social isolation. Without targeted investment there is a risk that climate adaptation widens health inequalities.

“Oxfordshire County Council is already working to address risk, and this summer will launch its pilot Heat Safe Homes programme. This will provide advice through home visits, local cool home training, community engagement, and the provision of cool packs. We are calling for central government support to expand this work to the scale needed to meet the challenge.”

The council believes that the government should consider expanding this Warm Homes Local Grant to include a Cool Homes Grant to protect our most vulnerable residents from overheating in their homes.

This grant would be used to help install passive and active cooling measures in vulnerable homes that are unable to afford them. External window shutters, blinds, improved ventilation, awnings, and air conditioning could all support these homes to be safe and liveable in summer.

The council has also called for the government to review current planning policies and building regulations which are currently constraining the uptake of external shading and ventilation measures.

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Oxfordshire County Council will fund the installation and initial maintenance costs of the cameras, which will detect vehicles travelling over the 50mph speed limit and identify vehicles jumping a red light in both directions. Thames Valley Police will be responsible for their ownership and operation.

The measures are in response to several collisions and near-misses since the junction to the Barton Park development opened, and follow concerns raised by residents and councillors.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “This will be extremely welcome news to everyone who lives in or visits this area and needs to cross this road. Excessive speeds and red-light jumping are genuine concerns at this location, with a video survey showing how widespread the problem is.

“We are delighted at this example of working in partnership with our colleagues at Thames Valley Police to put in a deterrent, which will make this road safer. Motorists who follow the rules will have nothing to fear. Those show disregard for others’ safety by breaking them will face the consequences.”

Chief Inspector Jade Hewitt, of Thames Valley Police’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “Road safety remains a priority for Thames Valley Police, and we welcome the installation of these safety cameras at the Barton Park junction. We are aware of concerns regarding speeding and red-light offences at this location, and the evidence gathered has demonstrated the need for further enforcement measures.

“The cameras will act as both a deterrent and an enforcement tool, encouraging motorists to comply with the speed limit and traffic signals, helping to reduce the risk of serious collisions. Speeding remains one of the Fatal Five factors that contribute to the most serious and fatal collisions on our roads, alongside drink and drug driving, distraction, not wearing a seatbelt and careless driving.

“Most drivers use our roads responsibly, but those who choose to ignore the law and put others at risk should expect to be held accountable.

“We are pleased to be working alongside Oxfordshire County Council as part of our shared commitment to improving road safety and protecting all road users across Oxfordshire.”

The funding is coming from the council’s Vision Zero programme, its ambition to eliminate death and serious injuries from road collisions in Oxfordshire by 2050.

The poles and cameras will be painted bright yellow to be as visible as possible to drivers, and advance warning signage has been approved by Thames Valley Police.

Installation work is scheduled to take place overnight, from 8pm - 6am, for up to four nights from Monday 20 July.

Traffic management will be in place, including lane closures when necessary to allow for safe working. The eastbound left-turn into Barton Park will be closed at times, and a diversion via the Headington roundabout will be in operation.

Residents are warned that some of the excavation work will be noisy, as vacuum excavation techniques are necessary due the presence of underground gas and electricity utilities.

Another recent addition to improve road safety in the area was the installation of flashing amber light warning signs either side of Barton Park Primary School.

This was also funded through the council’s Vision Zero programme and warns drivers of the likely presence of children crossing the road at school start and finish times.

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During her visit, Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones MBE met pioneering businesses and research organisations across the county, including Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.

The visit highlighted Oxfordshire’s strengths in cutting-edge sectors such as quantum computing and space, and explored new opportunities for collaboration, investment and shared learning with partners in Taiwan.

The representative visited world-leading organisations including QuEra, a global leader in neutral-atom quantum computing, and RAL Space, the UK’s national space laboratory. The programme provided a first-hand view of how Oxfordshire’s innovation ecosystem is turning research into real-world impact.

This visit builds on a growing programme of diplomatic engagement in the county. Following the success of last year’s visit by Lindsay Croisdale-Appleby CMG, the Head of the UK Mission to the European Union, further roadshows are planned over the coming months to strengthen international partnerships and promote regional growth.

These domestic roadshows form part of the government’s wider effort to connect global partners with UK regions, enabling trade, investment and long-term economic opportunity.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “I’m delighted to have welcomed the UK Representative in Taiwan to Oxfordshire, and to see continued international interest in what our county has to offer.

“Oxfordshire is home to one of the most dynamic innovation ecosystems in the world, with strengths across several internationally significant sectors. But our ambition goes beyond growth alone – we are focused on delivering growth that is sustainable, inclusive and benefits communities across the county.

“By building stronger international partnerships and opening up new opportunities for collaboration and investment, visits like this help ensure that our success is shared more widely, supporting good jobs, thriving places and a greener future.

“We look forward to continuing to work with partners in Taiwan and welcoming further international delegations to Oxfordshire in the months ahead.”

Representative Ruth Bradley-Jones MBE said: “It was a pleasure to visit Oxfordshire and see first-hand the innovation, talent and ambition that make it one of the UK’s leading science and technology clusters. I was inspired by the world-class work taking place across the county, from quantum technologies and space science to cutting-edge research and entrepreneurship.

“Taiwan is a natural partner for the UK, with complementary strengths in semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, research and emerging technologies. The presence of Taiwanese companies such as MSI and Acer in Oxfordshire reflects the strong links already connecting our innovation ecosystems.

“I see significant opportunities for deeper UK–Taiwan collaboration and look forward to supporting new partnerships between Taiwan’s technology sector and the UK’s leading innovation clusters.”

Monika Zemla, Director, Leasing & Business Development, at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus said: “We were delighted to welcome the UK Representative in Taiwan, Ruth Bradley-Jones MBE, to Harwell and showcase the breadth of innovation taking place across our campus. Harwell is home to a unique community of world-leading organisations, pioneering companies and research facilities, making it an ideal place to build international partnerships that translate cutting-edge science into real-world impact.

“Strengthening links with Taiwan creates exciting opportunities for collaboration in areas such as quantum technologies, space, health and advanced engineering, helping to drive innovation, investment and economic growth for both our nations.”

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Residents are being encouraged to take a few minutes this Alcohol Awareness Week to check in with their drinking and find out what help is available, if needed.

As part of Alcohol Awareness Week, which runs from 6 to 12 July, Oxfordshire County Council is highlighting local drug and alcohol services and encouraging residents to think about the role alcohol plays in their lives.

This year’s theme, “alcohol and me”, focuses on helping people reflect without judgement on their own habits, the wider pressures that can influence drinking, and small changes that can support better health and wellbeing.

The council is also highlighting the importance of early help for young people affected by drug and alcohol use, alongside services available for adults and families across Oxfordshire.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, said: “Alcohol Awareness Week is a helpful opportunity for people to pause and think about what feels right for them, their health and their wellbeing. This is not about telling people what to do. It is about making sure residents have clear information, practical tools and access to support if they want it.

“Small changes can make a real difference for some people, whether that is having more alcohol-free days, drinking a little less, or speaking to someone if alcohol is affecting day-to-day life. We want people in Oxfordshire to know that confidential, non-judgemental help is available.”

Adults aged 18 and over can access free, confidential support through Turning Point’s Oxfordshire Roads to Recovery, Oxfordshire’s local drug and alcohol service.

It offers advice, one-to-one recovery support, access to detoxification and residential rehabilitation where appropriate, drop-in sessions, group activities and help with wider issues such as employment and housing. Residents can call 01865 261690 or find their nearest hub in Oxford, Banbury, Didcot or Witney.

Children and young people can get free, confidential advice and support through Cranstoun Here4YOUth. The service supports young people in Oxfordshire aged eight to 25 affected by their own drug or alcohol use, or up to 18 if they’re affected by someone else’s.

They also support families where a parent or carer is using substances. Support can be provided online, by phone or in person at school, college, home or another place where the young person feels comfortable. People can call 01865 590825 or email here4youthox@cranstoun.org.uk.

Residents who want to better understand their drinking can also use DrinkCoach, a free and confidential online tool that provides a personalised score and advice in around two minutes. Eligible residents can also book free online coaching sessions with an alcohol specialist.

Alcohol Awareness Week is led annually by the charity Alcohol Change UK. Find out more by visiting the charity’s website.

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Expansion of Oxford’s Mabel Prichard Special School will be achieved by remodelling and refurbishing the recently vacated foundation stage accommodation at Orchard Meadow Primary School, which is co-located on the same site.

The project will deliver three new classrooms, pupil toilets, a group room, and ancillary accommodation. Plans also include the creation of an improved entrance, office space, staff room, and supporting accommodation, and will provide additional car parking and enhanced highway access to the school.

A full business case is due to be submitted for approval by the county council’s cabinet in August 2026, with an estimated total capital budget exceeding £2m.

Mabel Prichard Special School is managed by the Gallery Trust; they are delivering this project using funding provided by the county council.

Councillor Sean Gaul, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Young People’s Services, said: “We’re determined to continue investing in services for Oxfordshire’s special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) children and this commitment is reflected in these exciting plans for Mabel Prichard Special School.

“This will be a partnership approach, working with families, the academy trust, and communities to make a difference to the way children and young people get the support they deserve to help them thrive.”

Pupils and staff at Grove Church of England Primary School are set to benefit from a £9.4 million investment in new buildings and improvements.

Grove CE Primary School is an academy managed by Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust, who are delivering this project using funding provided by the county council.

A major building project will expand the school’s capacity from 210 to 315 primary pupil places, plus 39 new nursery places.

The budget for this project was approved in an outline business case in June 2025, with the full business case scheduled for consideration within a few months’ time.

The project will be managed by the Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust, which is responsible for the school, working in partnership with the county council and David Wilson Homes, who is delivering a new housing development in the north of Grove.

Councillor Dan Levy, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Property, said: “These exciting plans for Grove Church of England Primary School are designed to provide high quality teaching and learning environments for children by adding nearly 150 places for primary and nursery pupils to meet future needs, supported by our partner Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust. We are also progressing ambitious proposals for Faringdon Community College.”

The new school building will consist of seven classrooms, a hall and kitchen, main entrance reception area, and administrative and staff accommodation. The existing building will be remodelled to create accommodation for nursery and reception aged pupils.

David Wilson Homes will provide the council with additional land to facilitate this school expansion. On the additional land will be a full-sized all-weather sports pitch, and a new main entrance into the school site with parking for staff and visitors.

Work on the new building is due to start in February 2027.

Faringdon Community College is the third educational establishment for investment, with proposals to replace four temporary buildings – eight classrooms – with permanent accommodation, which will be delivered in two phases.

Faringdon Community College is a secondary school academy, managed by Cambrian Learning Trust. Cambrian Learning Trust is delivering the project using funding provided by the county council.

Phase one will be a two storey teaching block with seven classrooms, three group rooms, offices, toilets, and a large first floor circulation and breakout area.

The second phase of the project will be a student centre with secure student reception, five work rooms, three staff meeting rooms, offices and toilets.

Construction is due to start later in 2026.

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Oxfordshire County Council ‘s principal highways contractor M Group has welcomed the arrival of a 3.5-tonne highways maintenance truck – the first hydrogen-powered vehicle across the company’s 10,000 vehicle UK-wide fleet.

It marks a significant step in both M Group’s and the council’s commitments to reducing carbon emissions.

Compared to diesel, HVO and hydrogen fuel has significantly lower tailpipe carbon emissions by an average of 30 - 40 per cent. It also reduces emissions affecting air quality, such as nitrogen oxide, which support cleaner air across Oxfordshire.

While the fuel source is new, the vehicle is not.

Hydrogen technology specialists ULEMCo have retrofitted a standard maintenance truck, with the conversion funded by M Group. ULEMCo will also adapt a second vehicle, expected to be a medium or larger HGV, which will join the Oxfordshire fleet early in 2027.

Richard Lovewell, M Group’s Business Director, said: “M Group Highways has an ambitious target of being net zero carbon by 2040. We’re excited to be working with Oxfordshire County Council to trial practical solutions that can accelerate the journey to net zero.”

Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, said: “The climate emergency is the biggest challenge the planet faces, and we are committed to not only reaching our own net zero target as a council by 2030 but to enabling Oxfordshire to be carbon neutral well ahead of 2050.

“We are delighted to be working with M Group to trial this innovative technology which will mean lower emissions and cleaner air across Oxfordshire.”

The dual fuel vehicles will be used to transport crews and materials to sites to carry out repairs and improvements on Oxfordshire’s roads.

Highways crews have received in depth training on how to refuel, maintain and operate the converted vehicles, with a particular focus on driver and public safety.

The drivers’ experience – along with a host of metrics, such as costs and fuel usage efficiency – will help assess the overall success of the trial.

With HGVs and trucks contributing around 17 - 21 per cent of road transport emissions, Oxfordshire’s trial could be pivotal in accelerating the UK’s transition to hydrogen-powered vehicles.

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Step into Oxfordshire’s world of dragons, fairies, folklore and local legends this summer, as a new exhibition at the Oxfordshire Museum invites people to discover the tales that have shaped the county for generations.

Timeless Tales, which opens to the public on 18 July and runs until 6 September at the Oxfordshire County Council-run museum in Woodstock, explores the county’s rich folklore through tales of superstition, traditions and mythology.

Visitors will be able to explore a woodland setting, encounter a dragon and uncover beliefs, customs and local legends that have shaped Oxfordshire over time, with objects from the museum’s collection bringing the exhibition to life.

Little ones can also enjoy a special fairy door trail in the museum garden.

Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “This is a fascinating exhibition about stories and storytelling throughout our county’s history, bringing together traditions and local legends that continue to capture people’s imaginations.

“Whether you’re interested in local history, old beliefs or simply a good tale, this exhibition is a chance to see Oxfordshire in a new light and discover folklore hidden in familiar places. I hope residents and visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring the exhibition and feel inspired to share their own stories and traditions too.”

The exhibition is inspired by the discovery of notes recorded by Miss Constance Stanley-Smith, a former Oxfordshire County Librarian, who, from 1935, collected accounts of folklore, superstitions, miracles, hauntings and traditions from parishes throughout the county.

Supporting events throughout the summer include a performance in the museum garden by folk band Moonrakers, storytelling sessions and much more. Find out what’s on by visiting the Oxfordshire Museum’s website.

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The PropTech Innovation Fund, part of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s digital planning programme, supports local planning and combined authorities to test how digital innovation can address key challenges in planning delivery.

Oxfordshire is part of one of 11 consortiums chosen nationally, sharing £2.4 million in funding to support innovation in planning services. The chosen consortiums now enter an eight-month pilot phase, with a showcase of outcomes planned for early 2027.

The pilot will focus on improving how data is used across the planning system, helping to tackle some of the key barriers to housing delivery – particularly around evidence, data flows, and coordination across planning processes.  

By working collaboratively across multiple authorities and industry partners, the project will test solutions in real-world environments to support more consistent, efficient, and transparent planning outcomes.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “We are delighted to be selected as a finalist in the PropTech Innovation Fund. This pilot provides an important opportunity to work with partners to harness digital innovation, improve how planning data is used, and support more effective delivery of new homes and infrastructure.”

“Oxfordshire is working with national partners to test digital tools that can improve planning efficiency and support housing delivery, ensuring the county remains at the forefront of innovation.”

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People who have overcome additional challenges to enter the workplace have been celebrated at a special ceremony. 

Twenty-two young people received recognition for their hard work and determination in securing internships with local businesses. The placements are completed alongside college study, and each person aged 16 to 24 is supported by a dedicated support worker. 

The supported internship and government-funded Connect to Work programmes provide tailored support to residents with learning and physical disabilities, as well as long-term health conditions. 

The event was hosted by Oxfordshire County Council’s Oxfordshire Employment service at County Hall. It highlighted the achievements of individuals who have gained valuable skills, confidence and real-world work experience, with some progressing into paid employment thanks to personalised, one-to-one support. 

The programmes help build confidence and resilience, enabling participants to take meaningful steps towards independence and a future in employment. 

The recipient of the Connect to Work Achievement in Employment Award demonstrated from the outset that, with the right adjustments, all he needed was the opportunity to show what he could do. He did exactly that and is now thriving in a customer service role. 

The Supported Intern of the Year was commended for their dedication and positive attitude, earning excellent customer feedback, including strong reviews on TripAdvisor. 

Proud family and friends attended the ceremony to watch the young people receive their certificates from Councillor Ted Fenton, Chair of Oxfordshire County Council; Councillor Rebekah Fletcher, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care; and Karen Fuller, Director of Adult Social Care. 

Councillor Rebekah Fletcher said: “This was a great event and incredibly uplifting to see these young people taking their first steps into work.

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to find fulfilling, meaningful employment, and this event celebrates the determination and achievements of those who are making that journey.”

Will Gardner, Team Manager for Oxfordshire Employment, said: “It’s fantastic to see the progress individuals have made through our supported internships and Connect to Work programmes. 

“This event recognises not just outcomes, but personal journeys; the confidence gained, the skills developed, and the ambition shown by everyone involved. We’re proud to support people as they take their next steps into employment.” 

Dr Martin Reeves, Chief Executive of Oxfordshire County Council, told attendees that employment opportunities should be accessible to everyone, and that inclusive employment remains an untapped resource benefiting both businesses and residents.

Two companies offering inclusive placements were also recognised at the event.

The Pub Club provides paid employment opportunities leading to permanent careers in hospitality. It supports young people in West Oxfordshire aged over 18, helping develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed. 

GXO Logistics in Banbury was recognised for its strong track record in inclusive employment across North Oxfordshire. The company consistently goes above and beyond to create accessible opportunities and was awarded an inclusive leader award for exemplary practice as employers and colleagues. GXO also supports the programmes as ambassadors for Supported Internships and Connect to Work. 

Matthew Plastow, GXO senior operations manager, said: “Participating in the supported internship scheme has been a positive experience for The Entertainer. 

“Our interns have adapted well to the company and are friendly and hard working. 

“The company has strong links with the local communities in which it operates, and this scheme helps local young people facing barriers to employment gain access to the workplace.”

Picture shows Councillor Rebekah Fletcher awarding Matthew Plastow of GXO, Banbury, one of their two awards.

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Oxfordshire County Council has commissioned consultants Jacobs to carry out an options appraisal for a mass rapid transit (MRT) system between Carterton, Witney, Eynsham and Oxford.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “The closure of the Witney railway in 1970 and subsequent largescale development in the area have proved to be costly and mistaken. Reversing congestion and improving connectivity won't be easy – but it is essential that we try to address this.

“We want to identify, evaluate and recommend feasible options which can be in place by 2050 at the latest. The study will consider existing and planned infrastructure, as well as projected housing and employment growth.

“Current and forecasted travel demands, plus national, regional and local policy aimed at prioritising sustainable transport, mean that a major change in public transport provision is needed. Projects like this could help provide that.”

Bruce Slattery, Jacobs’ Director for Transport Planning, said: “Jacobs is supporting Oxfordshire County Council with the early-stage development of the west Oxfordshire mass rapid transit project. Through this work, we are helping to define a transport solution that will deliver essential public transport connections to the area and help to stimulate sustainable economic growth.”

An MRT system is a public transport network typically operating on dedicated corridors or priority lanes to offer reliable and efficient services. Unlike standard bus or rail services, MRT systems often use advanced vehicles, benefit from priority measures, and feature high-quality infrastructure such as segregated lanes or tracks, level boarding, and integrated ticketing.

West Oxfordshire is experiencing significant pressure from housing and employment growth, with Carterton, Witney, and Eynsham identified as key areas for development with up to 18,000 new homes and 60 hectares of employment proposed to be delivered by 2043.

Carterton is also home to the UK’s largest and potentially expanding RAF base required for national security while the Cotswolds is a national tourism hub with visitor numbers increasing annually.

Oxford, as a regional employment and educational hub, is facing increasing congestion and demand for sustainable travel options. The A40 corridor, the primary route serving west Oxfordshire, is subject to ongoing and planned improvements, in particular focused on prioritising bus services.

An MRT system is being considered to address the challenges, improve connectivity, and support sustainable regional growth.

It is expected that the chosen system will form part of the Oxfordshire Metro as discussed in the council’s recent OxRAIL 2040: Plan for Rail.

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Since 2025, Oxfordshire County Council has been reviewing speed limits and safety on its network as part of its Vision Zero programme to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on the network.

The review looks at whether existing speed limits are appropriate, using evidence such as collision data, road layout and how routes are used.

This has led to speed limit reductions on some stretches of road, including lowering national speed limit sections to 50mph or 40mph, alongside other measures such as junction changes or traffic management where risks have been identified.

The aim is to make rural roads safer for all users, recognising that many routes are narrow, winding and shared by drivers, cyclists, walkers, and horse riders.

Provisional government statistics published in late May suggest that the council’s approach is helping lead to significant improvements in road safety, with serious and fatal collisions in Oxfordshire falling sharply.

Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “This 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.

“Making sure speed limits are safe and appropriate is key to achieving this. Oxfordshire’s last major A and B road speed limit review was carried out 15 years ago, so this review is much needed.

“While it was heartening to see that Oxfordshire is seeing significant improvements in road safety, according to recent provisional government data, we are far from complacent. Every death is one too many. Indeed, it has strengthened our resolve to push on and make conditions safer on more of our rural roads.”

So far, the review has led to changes being approved on stretches of the A4074, A40, A420 and A417, as well as corridors such as the A4260 and associated B roads. Additionally, a consultation on changes on the A361 has been completed with a decision to be taken in July on whether to progress these.  

Now around 60 more schemes are coming forward in 2026-27 as part of the Vision Zero programme.

Stakeholder consultation will begin later this month including with parish and town councils, Thames Valley Police, and bus operators. This will be followed by statutory consultation later in the year, where the public will be invited to have their say.

Cllr Epps added: “It is important for people to realise that the review is not about introducing blanket changes across the county. This is a bespoke approach. Proposals are assessed case by case, consulted on publicly, and monitored once implemented to ensure they are effective.

“The review is a data-led reassessment of safety and speed on Oxfordshire’s main rural routes. Officers are using current Department for Transport criteria on speed limits to guide the changes to be considered.”

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From rugby and museum trips to cookery lessons and camping, free activities are available for children across the county through Oxfordshire County Council’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme this summer.

Open to all children aged four to sixteen in receipt of free school meals, the programme offers up to sixteen sessions of enriching activities over the summer holidays.

Each session lasts at least four hours and includes at least 60 minutes of physical activity, practical advice on eating well, and a healthy meal.

Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Inequalities, said: “This programme provides free activities and meals for more than 18,000 children and young people in Oxfordshire who are eligible for free school meals and is something we have introduced in response to the closure of the national Holiday Free School Meal voucher scheme. It helps support children’s health and wellbeing while reducing holiday hunger and social isolation and is just another example of how we are working to tackle health inequalities across the county.

“By taking part in activities such as these, children can build confidence, try new things and stay engaged during the holidays, while they can also give families extra support and access to opportunities they might not otherwise have. Sign up now!”

Activities include sport, arts and crafts, museum visits, science, outdoor adventures, nature-based learning and cookery sessions.

Sessions are being delivered by local organisations in communities across Oxfordshire, with a wide range of options available to suit different ages and interests.

Families can find and book activities by visiting the HAF platform, where eligibility will be checked automatically against existing records. The website includes full details of the activities available in different areas of the county.

Anyone with questions about the programme can email HAF@oxfordshire.gov.uk.

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Oxfordshire’s fire and rescue crews attended four major wildfires last year, three the year before and seven in 2023, each incident covering at least 10,000m2. They were also called to many smaller outdoor fires, which had potential to become much bigger incidents if they hadn’t been extinguished quickly.

During dry weather it only takes a small spark to set alight grass, shrubs or litter, and flames can quickly get out of control becoming major incidents that can put lives and property in danger.

Deb Forder, Safety Manager for Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Please be careful, act responsibly and follow our important safety guidance.

“If you’re going to be out and about in the countryside, please make sure you don’t discard your cigarette or throw it from your car; take your rubbish home as even something like a glass bottle can start a fire if it heats dry grassland by reflecting the sun’s rays.

“When using a barbeque, ensure it's in good working order and follow the instructions. It’s important to make sure any gas pipes are in good condition and connected correctly, placing the barbecue on a stable surface so it cannot fall over, and keep it well away from anything that can catch fire.

“After use we recommend that you make sure any cylinders are property turned off and if using charcoal or a disposable barbecue, please don’t dispose of any coals in your bin for at least 24 hours, and never leave a lit barbeque unattended.”

The fire prevention guidance extends to gardening, particularly the burning of unwanted cuttings and plant waste. The advice is to make sure any fire is at least 18 metres away from houses, trees, hedges, fences and sheds.

Deb said: “Please don't build your bonfire more than three metres in height and keep buckets of water or a working hosepipe nearby. Once your fire has died down, spray the embers with water to stop it from reigniting and keep a watchful eye to make sure it doesn’t flare up again.”

Oxfordshire’s fire and rescue crews have also been sharing water safety advice linked to concerns about people getting into difficulty in the county’s waterways and lakes, or during visits to the seaside.

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Today Oxfordshire County Council approved a grant of £306,200 for the Community Action Groups (CAG) Oxfordshire to continue its work for 2026 - 27.

This includes £100,000 in one-off public health funding in support of enhancing community gardening and land skills, addressing climate anxiety through social action, and the Heat Safe Homes project.

Councillor Laura Gordon, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy, said: “CAG Oxfordshire has been running for 25 years in the county and is the largest network of its kind in the country. It is full of committed and passionate groups doing great things in their local communities, working on waste, energy, transport, biodiversity, food and social justice.

“As a council, we are delighted to enter a one-year grant funding arrangement and will be working with them going forward to ensure we continue to support their great work, while being mindful of the significant funding challenges faced by the council in future years.”

The county council has fully funded the network since 2001. The latest grant will run until 31 March 2027 while the council considers its other voluntary and community sector offerings.

In 2024 - 25, CAG Oxfordshire held over 8,000 events and activities, attracting more than 120,000 attendees, and brought almost £6 million in funding and income to the county.

Katherine Chesson, Director of CAG Oxfordshire, said: “CAG Oxfordshire is grateful to the county council for its ongoing commitment to the thousands of volunteers who are making a difference on issues of social change that affect us all.

“Our member groups undertake activities that range from supporting residents to grow and cook nutritious food with zero waste; hosting libraries of things and repair cafes to encourage repairing and sharing over buying new; engaging people in nature recovery and nature engagement plans; and working to bring wealth and power back to communities.”

The council’s policies and strategies benefit from the groups’ activities and awareness-raising on topics such as social justice and equity, waste reduction and recycling, energy, climate mitigation and adaptation, biodiversity and flooding.

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