‘Catastrophic' – New 16,000-seater Championship stadium delayed by ‘ancient woodland' amid warnings over club's future
The Championship side are hoping to build a
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Oxford are planning to build a 16,000-seater stadium
Credit: Oxford United
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The new ground would be a huge community asset
Credit: https://www.oufc.co.uk/
Plans were first
Cherwell District Council had been scheduled to come to a decision at a planning committee on July 31.
Remarkably, this meeting has been delayed by two weeks to August 14 following a ruling by Natural England.
Oxford's proposed Triangle site borders the Stratfield Brake woodland.
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The woodland area was recently handed "ancient" status - sparking fresh concerns over whether this could affect the council's decision on Oxford's proposed new stadium.
Upon the delay, U's development director Jonathon Clarke said: "It's frustrating that this delay has been caused by a last-minute submission from a statutory consultee, particularly given they had previously raised no objections to the application.
'However, we have provided comprehensive evidence addressing the points raised. This is an incredibly detailed, robust application.
'We will continue our work towards a positive recommendation as we await a new committee date.'
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Natural England claim that Oxford's plans "have the potential to adversely affect" the woodland.
But the organisation does not oppose the stadium build.
Championship club could be left without a stadium as EFL deadline looms
Oxford play at the Kassam Stadium, having moved there since 2001.
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In May the second-tier side extended their lease at the Kassam to 2027, with an option for a further year.
The site is still owned by Oxford's former owner Firoz Kassam, and Oxford City Council plans could see the Kassam Stadium torn down and replaced by as many as 150 homes in future.
Oxford's proposed new Triangle home would boast plenty of community facilities in addition to the stadium, including a 180-bed hotel, restaurant, conference centre and community plaza.
'CATASTROPHIC'
Labour MP for Oxford East Anneliese Dodds has stressed the importance of the U's receiving planning permission.
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She wrote on X: "I'm disappointed by the delay in deciding on @OUFCOfficial's new stadium.
"OUFC, its fans, and Oxfordshire need this stadium for the benefits it will bring.
"A positive decision is crucial, as more delays could have a catastrophic impact on the club."
Oxford are currently preparing for their second season back in the Championship following their promotion in 2023-24.
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Gary Rowett's side finished 17th last term, four points clear of the drop zone.
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Anneliese Dodds has offered a stark warning
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