Oxford United’s aspirations for a new 16,000-seater stadium have hit a setback as the Thames Valley Police has raised objections. They cited concerns related to counter-terrorism measures and road safety as grounds for rejecting the plans. This news comes as Portsmouth’s Fratton Park prepares to host teams like Millwall, Sunderland, and Cardiff City following Pompey’s promotion back to the Championship.
The stadium, undergoing significant renovations, aims to be ready by the end of 2025. However, Oxford United’s plans for a new stadium on the Triangle in Kidlington have been put on hold due to these objections. The police stated that they must object as they lack sufficient information to fully evaluate the proposals, emphasizing concerns about security and safety. Oxford United will face Bolton Wanderers in the upcoming League One play-off finals as they seek promotion to the Championship, but their stadium plans remain uncertain.
The insufficient information is said to have related to lack of information on highways and road safety, cycle parking, counter-terrorism, football policing and operations, landscaping, lighting and CCTV. In a statement, responding to the proposals, the force have suggested that offers have ‘currently being explored’ but remind Oxford United the above information must be included for a successful application.
The property director at Oxford United has since responded to the news saying: “We welcome the feedback and will be working on the details to ensure Thames Valley Police has the additional information it needs.
“This is a collaborative process and each element outlined will be addressed comprehensively in the detailed plans which we are confident will gain support. Overall, our plans will deliver a world-class venue that is sustainable, safe and delivers vast benefits to the Oxfordshire community and economy.”
Six League One stars emerge as free agents
Peterborough have confirmed that six of their first-team stars have been transfer listed, after announcing who will be retained ahead of next season. The Posh had hoped to make the leap back to the Championship, but defeat to Oxford United in the League One play-off semi-finals has seen the club look to move on a number of players.
Four players have been released, with their contracts set to expire in June, while a further six have been listed for transfers. Four stars have been offered contracts, while three are set to bid farewell as they return to their parent clubs.
While Jed Steer, Josh Knight, Ollie Rose and Joel Odei-Larbi have all been offered new deals – with Peterborough expecting to see competition for both Knight and Steer’s signature – the Posh will soon be saying their goodbyes to Jonson Clarke-Harris, Jeando Fuchs, Fynn Talley and Vontae Daley-Campbell who have been released.
The club are willing to listen to offers for Romoney Crichlow, David Ajiboy, Kabongo Tshimanga, Kai Corbett, Aaron Powell and Charlie O’Connell.
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