LOCAL democracy wins.

Again the Save Oxford Stadium has reason to thank Oxford City Council for turning down the developer’s attempt to demolish it and build 220 houses on the site. It is clear by the strength of feelings expressed that nobody wants to lose the recreational and leisure facilities it can provide.

This is an example of local democracy in action when the councillors have the support and the strength to resist the current owners who just want the stadium destroyed to make as much money out of their irresponsible and destructive plans, regardless of the strength of feelings against them.

If Green Party councillor Simon West believes that such a development is right, I for one want nothing to do with his political party.

The area planning committee agreed that even though Oxford has a desperate housing need it is not a good enough reason to just cram as many houses together as possible and build on unsuitable sites, which creates awful places for people to live.

If anyone believes that this is a good development, one look at the plans will convince them that it is not.

The councillors stood up for those who want the stadium to succeed and see the return of the activities and the sports they enjoy. This is not just a pipe dream, since there are potential new owners who will pay good money to make the stadium a success again.

The councillors are to be congratulated for voting once again to Save Oxford Stadium.

JOHN FRAY
London Road
Wheatley