Oxford United New Stadium Plans to Set a ‘New Benchmark’ for Accessibility

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14 August 2025 | Updated 15 August 2025

Oxford United Football Club’s plans for a new 16,000-seat stadium have been praised for their inclusivity and accessibility provisions by former Paralympian Baroness Grey-Thompson DBE.

Baroness Grey-Thompson, who has been a Crossbench Peer in the House of Lords since 2010, advised Oxford United Football Club throughout the planning process.

Plans for the 16,000-capacity stadium were approved by Cherwell District Council on 14 August 2025. The project includes a new club shop and ticket office, sports bar, restaurant, health clinic and a 180-room hotel.

Accessibility measures included in the proposal are: spaces for 130 wheelchairs at the stadium, extended and raised wheelchair viewing platforms and an array of accessible concourses and food kiosks. There will also be wheelchair-friendly turnstiles at all entry gates, step-free access to all hospitality areas and a large number of accessible parking bays (80 on match days).

Other provisions include a sensory room, Changing Places toilets and accessible hotel rooms on all four levels.

Baroness Grey-Thompson, who is an 11-time wheelchair racing gold medallist, said: “The development of new stadiums represents a golden opportunity for clubs to equalise the matchday experience of able-bodied and disabled fans alike.

“I know from personal experience, both professionally and as a sports enthusiast, how restrictive some sports stadia are for people who require additional assistance."

The new stadium will be built on a 7.17-hectare site known as “The Triangle,” located between Stratfield Brake and Oxford Parkway Railway Station, Kidlington. 

Picture: a CGI showing the proposed new stadium from the point of view of the spectator stands, showing the crowd erupting in celebration. Image Credit: Oxford United

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 14 August 2025

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