Oxford United new stadium saga continues as campaigners now lodge ‘formal complaint’ over plans

Oxford United's proposed 16,000-seat stadium has become the subject of a fresh complaint over the protection of woodland at the planned development site.

Friends of Stratfield Brake (FoSB) claim Natural England reversed its position on the area's ancient woodland status amid concerns over the project's progress.

New Oxford United stadium plans face formal complaint

FoSB have lodged a ‘formal complaint' over the treatment of woodland at The Triangle, near Kidlington, where the U's plan to build their new stadium, via the BBC.

The campaign group claims Natural England twice identified the woodland as ancient before withdrawing the designation over what it described as “reputational concerns” and “political interference”.

Ancient woodland status can bring greater protection under planning laws, with sites generally needing to date back to the 1600s.

FoSB has released emails obtained through freedom of information requests, including correspondence from the office of Oxford East MP Anneliese Dodds in July 2025 questioning Natural England's position shortly before the stadium application went to committee.

Dodds rejected suggestions that she had inappropriately pressured the statutory consultee, saying her staff had raised concerns on behalf of Oxford United and sought a meeting to discuss the objection.

She added that she was reflecting the views of constituents who supported the new stadium.

FoSB also claims that Natural England reconsidered the woodland's status in December 2025, with an email suggesting the balance of evidence favoured classifying the site as ancient woodland. The campaign group alleges that the decision was subsequently overturned internally.

Natural England said it understood the strength of feeling surrounding the development and was reviewing new evidence, with its findings to be made public.

Oxford United received planning permission for the stadium last year, although the final decision remains subject to an appeal. FoSB is also pursuing further legal proceedings after a High Court dismissal.

FGG says: Oxford United's stadium plans remain clouded by uncertainty

The latest complaint adds another layer of uncertainty to a project that has already faced significant scrutiny.

The woodland's status is an important issue, but the complaint itself does not mean the stadium plans will be overturned.

Oxford United need clarity over the route towards a new home, while campaigners want assurances that the local environment will receive proper protection.

For now, the stadium is likely to go ahead, with the balance between the club's ambitions and environmental concerns still unresolved.