Oxford United’s plans for a new stadium at Kidlington will not go before councillors until at least June.
The club had initially hoped the plans would be considered by Cherwell District Council’s planning committee in January but, since additional information was provided as part of the application, the council has requested additional time.
The club has agreed and has accepted that the planning committee will not now consider the plans for the 16,000-capacity stadium, with 180-bedroom hotel, restaurant, conference centre, health & well-being space, gym and community plaza, until June at the earliest.
Jonathon Clarke, Oxford United development director, said: “I’d like to reassure our supporters that planning extensions such as this are common practice with significant developments which require extensive studies and careful examination.
“We continue to have positive meetings with key stakeholders and fully appreciate the need to ensure everything is in place for a favourable decision to be made.
“This incredible, once in a lifetime project will secure the long-term future of the club and deliver multiple benefits to local communities. The fact the application has received more than 2,400 comments in our favour is testament to the overwhelming support for this project.”
The club will also be submitting for more information relating to Very Special Circumstances for the Green Belt development which the club says is in line with agreed timeframes.
The earliest possible planning committee meeting date for determination is June 5.
Owing to the delay, the club has said it is in ‘advanced discussions’ regarding alternative short-term provisions for the period between the lease at the Kassam Stadium expiring in 2026 and the new stadium being ready.
© Thames Tap (powered by ukpropertyforums.com).
Sign up to receive our weekly free journal, The Forum here.
