05 October
Higher-than-average traffic expected this weekend at Bicester Heritage
New bollards have been installed in St Mary’s in Oxford to address safety concerns after vehicles were seen dangerously squeezing through gaps. Green Party Councillor Emily Kerr, who represents St Mary’s Ward, announced the update on social media, highlighting the need for increased protection.
LTNs were introduced in east Oxford in May 2022 to reduce through traffic and have faced protests, with bollards being damaged or removed. In response to the risks posed by cars driving over pavements, additional bollards were placed to enhance safety. Councillor Kerr emphasised that this specific junction now has five bollards, improving security for residents.
Due to small cars squeezing dangerously through the gaps and driving over the pavements, a number of new bollards have been installed on one filter in my LTN.
— Cllr Emily Kerr
No more messing around, this junction has gone from 1 to 5 bollards & is now safe. @WorldBollard pic.twitter.com/xydWZZyCEa(@EmilyKerr36) October 5, 2024
Higher-than-average traffic expected this weekend at Bicester Heritage
Drivers are advised to expect higher-than-average traffic this weekend as motor enthusiasts gather at Bicester Heritage for the final Scramble event of 2024 on Sunday, 06 October. The Scramble offers a relaxed outdoor gathering for classic car lovers, featuring a wide range of vehicles from vintage and modern classics to supercars.
The family-friendly event will include curated displays, entertainment, and an appearance by the Scramblers membership club. Visitors can enjoy fresh air and historic motoring in a picturesque setting, with well-behaved dogs welcome on a lead. Attendees can also explore the 50 specialist businesses based at the historic site, gaining behind-the-scenes access to showrooms and workshops.
New digital cafĂ© at Oxford’s Westgate Library helps to get people online
A new digital cafĂ© at Oxford’s Westgate Library aims to help people access online health services, particularly the NHS App. Held on the first Monday of each month from 2.00pm to 4.00pm, the cafĂ© offers free one-on-one support for those unfamiliar with using mobile devices, laptops, or tablets.
This initiative is a collaboration between Oxfordshire County Council, the NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board (BOB ICB), and Oxford City Council. It aims to make using technology easier and more accessible for all, especially for those needing assistance with health services.
04 October
Watlington Chess Club wins Division 3 of the Oxfordshire Chess League
Shout out to the Watlington Chess Club, who won Division 3 of the Oxfordshire Chess League in its first year of entering. Watlington Chess Club is a friendly new chess club founded as part of the remarkable resurgence in the popularity of chess after The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix (and COVID thumb-twiddling).
If you like online chess, you’ll love playing it over the board. Watlington Chess Club meets on Thursday evenings for social chess, competitive matches in the local league, some chess learning and pub afterwards. All levels are welcome. Under-16s need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Local community-led housing project scoops prestigious award from Inside Housing magazine
The Hook Norton Community Land Trust won “Best affordable housing development – less than £5 million” at the Inside Housing Development Awards 2024, supported by Cherwell District Council. The Bourne Green development includes 12 Passivhaus-standard homes, integrating renewable energy systems and a smart microgrid. Judges praised its sustainable, innovative practices.
Councillor Nick Cotter lauded the project as a testament to the community’s efforts, emphasising its success in providing affordable rural housing. Cathy Ryan, Chair of the Trust, highlighted the project as a model for other communities in Oxfordshire to build sustainable homes. The development includes eight affordable social homes, market-rate homes, and community amenities like a co-working space and shared garden, developed with extensive local consultation.
Celebrating Black History Month at Cherwell District Council this October
Cherwell District Council is celebrating Councillor Dr Chukwudi Okeke, who made history as its first black councillor in 2022 and first black chairman in 2024. Councillor Okeke is honoured to represent the district, driven by a passion for creating an inclusive, cohesive society for people of all backgrounds.
Councillor Okeke emphasises the importance of representation, particularly for minority voices, in local government. He has found the journey rewarding, with support from colleagues and council officers. His historic achievements include paving the way for Councillor Becky Clarke MBE, Cherwell’s first black female councillor, underscoring his commitment to diversity and inclusion.
03 October
Show Racism The Red Card’s new play ‘Our Little Hour’ comes to Oxford
Show Racism the Red Card, a UK anti-racism charity, has commissioned Our Little Hour, a musical drama for Black History Month, to highlight an overlooked injustice involving Walter Tull, a pioneering Black British figure from WWI. Tull, grandson of a Barbadian slave and orphaned young, became the first Black professional footballer in the UK and later the first Black British Army Officer to lead troops in combat.
Despite his heroism, including a recommendation for the Military Cross for his bravery during the North Italian Campaign in 1917, Tull never received the honour. The play, written by Dougie Blaxland with music by Chris Anthony, addresses this historical omission and aims to inspire efforts to rectify this injustice. Our Little Hour will be performed at the Oxford Playhouse on 11and 12 October.
Enjoy all the fun of the Didcot Eco Fair this November
The Didcot Eco Fair will take place on Saturday, 02 November, at Cornerstone Arts Centre, from 11.00am to 3.00pm. This free, family-friendly event, part of the Didcot Garden Town project, is organised by South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils in partnership with Sustainable Didcot. The fair will showcase local sustainable businesses and offer arts and crafts activities, plus advice on reducing environmental impact and heating bills.
The event will feature an Eco Marketplace with stalls offering handmade products, upcycled clothing, and sustainable hygiene items. Attendees can participate in a clothes swap, repair cafĂ©, and learn about nature recovery and energy-saving tips from the councils’ waste and climate teams. Everyone is invited. Further information can be found on the Didcot Eco Fair events page.
Local solicitor Chris Felton named a ‘Leading Individual’ in prestigious legal guide for 10th year
Chris Felton, Partner at Gardner Leader, has been named a “Leading Individual” in the Legal 500 Guide for the 10th consecutive year. The firm received top-tier recommendations across 12 practice areas, including Corporate, Litigation, Employment, and Private Client work. Several other team members, including Alastair Goggins and Michelle Di Gioia, were also recognized.
Gardner Leader retained its top ranking for Personal Tax, Trusts, and Probate for the fifth year. The firm, which has grown significantly and now employs over 200 people, was praised for its adaptability, technical skills, and client-focused approach. Managing Partner Derek Rodgers highlighted the firm’s commitment to delivering expert legal advice across its expanding regional offices.
Oxford Bus Group hosts City Sightseeing Worldwide UK and Ireland Operator Forum
Oxford Bus Group hosted the City Sightseeing Worldwide UK and Ireland Operator Forum at its Cowley House depot, welcoming Jeronimo Cardenas, Deputy CEO of City Sightseeing Worldwide, and operators from across the UK and Ireland. Managing Director Luke Marion shared Oxford Bus Company’s experience in electrifying its fleet, showcasing the charging infrastructure and leading a tour on an electric City Sightseeing bus.
City Sightseeing Oxford, which operates 11 electric buses, invested £4 million in 2024 to expand its fleet with eight new vehicles powered by renewable energy, improving air quality and enhancing Oxford’s appeal. The company was recently awarded a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award for its excellent customer service and top-rated tours of Oxford’s iconic landmarks. The forum focused on innovation, market trends, and responding to customer feedback to drive growth.
Dishoom Permit Room Oxford announces its opening date
Dishoom has announced the opening of Permit Room Oxford on Friday, 25 October, located on New Inn Hall Street, a historic spot in the city. Inspired by Bombay’s iconic permit rooms, this all-day bar-cafĂ© will offer a lively atmosphere with signature cocktails, music from local DJs, and a diverse food menu.
Ahead of the official opening, a soft launch from 19 to 24 October offers 50% off food. The venue operates mainly on a walk-in basis but allows reservations for larger parties. Permit Room Oxford promises an inviting space for quick drinks, light snacks, or a full dining experience catering to all-day visits. Guests can enjoy Dishoom’s beloved dishes, including breakfast Naan Rolls, curries, and House Chai.
02 October
South Oxfordshire District Council reduces carbon emissions by nearly half
South Oxfordshire District Council has reduced its carbon emissions by 47% since 2009/10, making significant progress toward its ambitious net zero goals. Efforts include energy-saving projects for leisure centres, funded by the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, and introducing electric vehicles in waste management. The council aims to become carbon neutral by 2025 and achieve net zero for the district by 2030.
Challenges remain, including slower technological advancements in electric refuse vehicles and inconsistent government funding. To address these, the council is adjusting its net zero targets to 2030 for operations and 2045 for the district, aligning with other Oxfordshire councils. It is also promoting business decarbonisation grants and partnerships for district-wide emissions reduction.
01 October
Big Open Weekend of free activities at Oxford leisure centres
Oxford’s leisure centres are hosting a Big Open Weekend on 05 and 06 October, offering two days of free fitness taster sessions, classes, and family-friendly events. Organized by More Leisure Community Trust, the event includes activities like free swimming, badminton, soft play for kids, gym classes, and beginner skate lessons at the Oxford Ice Rink, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
The participating centres are Barton Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre, Leys Pools & Leisure Centre, and Oxford Ice Rink. Attendees can enjoy special offers, friendly advice, and a range of fun activities for all ages. To find the nearest centre and plan your weekend, visit www.oxfordcityleisure.com.
Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Councils give go ahead to publish draft Joint Local Plan
Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Councils have published their draft Joint Local Plan for public review, available for comment for six weeks. The plan, set to replace the current Local Plans, outlines housing, jobs, and infrastructure needs for the next 15 years. It confirms no additional greenfield sites are needed, except for a brownfield expansion at Dalton Barracks.
The plan emphasizes net-zero carbon development and higher biodiversity targets. Leaders from both councils highlighted the community’s role in shaping the plan, which aims to increase affordable housing and protect valued landscapes. After the comment period, the plan will be submitted to the government for examination by a planning inspector.
The post In Brief: October 2024 appeared first on The Oxford Magazine.
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