Oxford United’s proposed new stadium has received high-profile backing for its accessibility-focused design from former British Paralympian and Crossbench Peer Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson
Calling it a potential “benchmark” for inclusive sports venues, 11-time wheelchair racing gold medallist, Baroness Grey-Thompson, has advised the Club throughout the planning process.
She highlighted the importance of equal access for all fans: “The development of new stadiums represents a golden opportunity for clubs to equalise the matchday experience of able-bodied and disabled fans alike. I am delighted to see Oxford United’s plans to create a truly inclusive new stadium as part of the Club’s long-term, sustainable future.”
The 16,000-capacity stadium is designed with extensive accessibility features, including:
- 130 wheelchair spaces and raised, extended viewing platforms
- Wide accessible concourses and food kiosks
- Wheelchair-friendly turnstiles at all entry points
- Step-free access to hospitality areas
- Numerous accessible parking bays
- Dedicated sensory room, Changing Places toilets, and accessible hotel rooms on all four levels
Stadium accessibility at the forefront of designs
Baroness Grey-Thompson praised the Club’s approach: “Oxford United has prioritised accessibility at every corner and continues to engage with disabled fans and advisers to remove barriers. If approved, this stadium could set a new benchmark for fan experiences.”
Level Playing Field, a UK charity dedicated to improving disabled fans’ access to live sport, has also endorsed the project. Chief executive Owain Davies said:
“New stadiums are a key opportunity to make attending live sport more inclusive. Physical access is often the biggest barrier for disabled fans, and these plans demonstrate how careful design can transform the matchday experience. We welcome the chance to continue working with Oxford United as the project progresses.”
The Club’s inclusive approach reflects a growing trend in stadium construction, where accessibility and fan experience are integrated into the core design rather than added as an afterthought.
Council approval to build on the Green Belt site
The development will be built on Green Belt land known as The Triangle, near Kidlington. A planning report released by the council concluded that “very special circumstances” exist to justify the development, with the benefits outweighing the harm to the Green Belt.
The design proposal has been recommended for approval by council planning officers and will be discussed by Cherwell District Council’s planning committee on 14 August. Should the committee agree with the recommendations of the report, the application will then be referred to the Secretary of State.
The full council planning report can be found here.
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