Fresh twist in Oxford United stadium saga as opponents launch new appeal despite legal setback

Oxford United's proposed new 16,000-seater stadium is facing another legal challenge after campaigners confirmed they will appeal a judge's decision to refuse permission for a judicial review.

The latest move comes despite previous legal setbacks, with the club continuing to push ahead with plans for a new home near Kidlington.

Campaigners to appeal judge's decision over new Oxford United stadium

Friends of Stratfield Brake (FoSB) have confirmed they will appeal against a decision refusing permission for a judicial review of Oxford United's stadium plans, as per the BBC.

The group first launched its legal challenge in April, raising concerns about the potential impact of the development on local wildlife and proposed road closures.

FoSB's request for a judicial review was rejected for a second time in September following a permission hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice.

However, the campaign group says its lawyers believe there are grounds to take the case to the Court of Appeal.

The proposed stadium, which has already received planning approval from Cherwell District Council and the government, would be built on land known as the Triangle, close to Kidlington and alongside the A34.

The legal challenge has previously focused on concerns surrounding woodland at Stratfield Brake. Natural England initially considered the area to be ancient woodland before later concluding that the trees in question were not shown on historical Oxfordshire maps it had examined.

Oxford United has described the proposed stadium as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity”, with the development also including a 180-room hotel, restaurant, conference centre and community plaza.

FGG says: Oxford United stadium plans continue to face uncertainty

The latest appeal means the legal opposition to Oxford United's new stadium is not over, despite campaigners suffering another setback. The Court of Appeal process could now add further time to an already lengthy planning process.

For Oxford United, the continued challenge represents another hurdle as the club looks to establish a permanent future beyond the Kassam Stadium.

With the existing lease due to expire in 2028, the new stadium remains an important part of the club's long-term plans.