Oxford United Football Club has taken a significant step towards leaving the Kassam Stadium and building a new ground. The club has reached an agreement to lease land at The Triangle in Kidlington for the construction of a 16,000-seater stadium. In addition to the stadium, the plans include a 180-bed hotel, restaurant, conference center, and health and wellbeing space, making it a multifaceted complex.
The current Kassam Stadium, where Oxford United has been playing since 2001, is a three-sided stadium. The club is contracted to host home games there until 2026, when their current agreement expires. The move to a new site reflects the club’s ambition to secure a long-term home in the county.
The recent agreement with Oxfordshire County Council marks a significant milestone in the development of the new stadium. The council has agreed to lease land it owns near Kidlington to Oxford United for the stadium project. This positive progress brings the club one step closer to realizing its long-term vision. However, it is important to note that this agreement is just one part of a broader process.
Oxford United has made sustainability a priority for their new stadium. In February, they pledged to make it the most eco-friendly mid-sized sports venue in the country. The proposed stadium will be the first all-electric stadium in the nation, relying solely on electricity instead of gas or other fossil fuels. It will also feature 3000m² of solar panels along its roof, which can generate enough electricity to boil three million three-litre kettles per year. This commitment to sustainability aligns with Oxford’s goal of creating something special and one of the greenest football stadiums ever built.
The club’s development director, Jon Clarke, emphasized the significance of their sustainability efforts. He stated that the stadium would be the most sustainable mid-sized sports venue in the country and that they want to make the most of the opportunity to create something special. This commitment to sustainability not only reflects the club’s values but also sets an example for other sports venues to follow.
While the plans for the new stadium are underway, Oxford United is also focused on their on-field success. Managed by Des Buckingham, they are currently in pursuit of a League One play-off place. Sitting in seventh place with one game remaining, they are just behind Lincoln on goal difference. They could also potentially catch fifth-placed Barnsley, who are only one point ahead. The final day of the season will be crucial for Oxford as they aim to secure a play-off spot and end the season on a high note.
Overall, Oxford United’s move to a new stadium signifies an exciting chapter in the club’s history. The agreement with Oxfordshire County Council is a positive step towards realizing their long-term vision. Their commitment to sustainability sets them apart and showcases their dedication to creating an eco-friendly sports venue. As the club continues to chase success on the field, their new stadium will provide a modern and sustainable home for both players and fans alike.