The new Lib Dem-Green authority in charge of an area where a new football stadium is proposed has drawn concerns that it may be “blocking” its “progress”.
Oxford United intends to construct a 16,000-seat stadium near Kidlington’s The Triangle, allowing it to vacate its present location at Kassam Stadium, whose lease expires in 2026.
Following its annual meeting on Wednesday, May 22, the north Oxfordshire Cherwell District Council revealed its new leadership.
The meeting’s conclusions showed that, following Labour’s rejection of a partnership offer, the Liberal Democrats and Greens would control the government.
This occurs after local elections saw the Lib Dems gain seven seats and the Conservatives lose nine, making the Lib Dems the majority party.
Barry Wood, the former Conservative leader of the council, has retreated, with Eddie Reeves stating that regaining control is his ultimate objective.
“People should be concerned about this new administration,” stated Mr. Reeves.
The Liberal Democrat and Green Councillors should be concentrating on the day-to-day, grunt labour of managing local public services instead of being fixated on political fads and trendy issues.
“They obstructing Oxford United’s progress worries me the most.
We are aware that County Hall’s Cabinet members are against the club’s plans, supposedly for reasons related to transportation.
“They may put further obstacles in the path of the club directors as they try to build on the team’s incredible success this season now that they control Cherwell District Council, the local planning authority.
All in all, Conservative council members ought to concentrate on the neighbourhood concerns that locals care about the most.
“That is what we will be doing and, where possible, making sure that this new Lib Dem-Green administration does the same.”
Some county council members from Liberal Democrats and Green parties, such as Ian Middleton, who currently holds a cabinet position in the district, have expressed disapproval of certain aspects of Oxford United’s stadium plans. However, not all members of these parties have voiced their opposition, with some even vocally endorsing the club.
In the past, Mr. Middleton expressed his concerns about the construction of open space and noted that “these things have happened in increments – you turn around and the next thing you’ve got a football stadium and 2,000 houses” in reference to Kidlington’s ongoing growth.
“It is an honour to serve as the new leader, the first in 20 years, and to represent Cherwell, my home,” declared David Hingley, the new council leader for the Liberal Democrats.
As a leader, my tenet is to manage an administration with a collaborative attitude. I am happy that our administration, led by Liberal Democrats, has extended an invitation to our Green and Independent Alliance colleagues to join the executive.
“Our dedication to prioritising the needs of Cherwell residents is demonstrated by this cooperative effort. Even though we have a lot on our plate, I have faith that we can provide for the entire district, from west to east and north to south.
With no single party in total control of the council, Sean Woodcock, the leader of the Labour Party in Cherwell, has stated that he will “continue to promote” Labour’s aims as the “second largest party and as the official opposition, a role which carries huge importance.”
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