Oxford United submit plans for new stadium

Oxford United have submitted a proposal to build a new stadium at Stratfield Brake in the city.

The Kassam Stadium has been the home of Oxford United since 2001, but they do not own the ground. Their lease is due to expire in 2026.

The U's plans include building a new 18,000-capacity stadium and associated facilities on the 18-hectare site.

The proposal is due to be discussed at an Oxfordshire County Council cabinet meeting on 18 January.

The Stratfield Brake site, near Kidlington, is home to a number of community sports teams including Kidlington Cricket Club, the Gosford All Blacks rugby team and youth football sides.

"It has always been our desire to be in control of our own destiny and build a sustainable future for the club on our own terms," Oxford United managing director Niall McWilliams said. "We are hopeful that this proposed stadium move would enable us to do exactly that.

"As we have always said, this project is about more than football - we are determined to be part of a project that brings international class sporting and community facilities to Oxfordshire."