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Oxford United’s plans for a new 16,000-seat stadium have received a significant boost after the High Court rejected a fresh legal challenge.
Campaigners opposing the proposed ground now have seven days to refer the case to the Court of Appeal.
High Court rejects opposition to new 16,000-seat Oxford United ground
The High Court has dismissed a request for a judicial review by campaigners opposing Oxford United’s plans to build a new stadium on land known as the Triangle, near Kidlington.
The proposals were approved by Cherwell District Council before receiving government approval last year, but campaign group Friends of Stratfield Brake (FoSB) subsequently challenged the decision.
The group raised concerns about the potential impact on local wildlife and planned road closures, with its latest request for a full judicial review rejected at a permission hearing on Thursday.
Oxford United said the judge, Mr Justice Johnson, had concluded that the grounds of challenge were “unarguable”.
However, FoSB’s legal representatives said the group was disappointed with the outcome and was considering its options, including an appeal.
The dispute has also centred on the status of nearby woodland, which was initially declared ancient woodland before Natural England reversed its position, saying the trees were not found on historical maps it had examined.
Supporters’ group Ox Vox welcomed the latest ruling, with Paul Peros describing the judgement as “massive” and saying it affirmed that the planning process had been correct.
FGG says: Oxford United’s new stadium project takes huge step forward
The High Court’s decision represents a major development for Oxford United, whose proposed new home has faced legal opposition since planning permission was granted last year.
While the possibility of an appeal means the challenge may not be over, the latest ruling gives the club further momentum as it seeks to deliver a 16,000-seat stadium.
Oxford United has previously described the project as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” and warned that its future could be in jeopardy without a new ground, with their lease at the Kassam Stadium set to expire in the coming seasons.
The latest judgement brings the club closer to progressing its plans, although the next seven days will be important in determining whether campaigners pursue another legal challenge.