Christmas events are to take place in various locations across the city this year following some criticism of changes to last year's celebrations.

Last year the Christmas market was criticised by traders for having low footfall and a flat atmosphere compared to previous years.

Permanent changes to Broad Street to create a civic space meant a reduction in size and wooden chalets were replaced with gazebos.

Founder of Oxford's market Nicole Rahimi quit as organiser after the county council insisted on keeping a cycle lane through Broad Street.

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The council said the road was "a key route" used by "thousands of cyclists every day" and that it had taken steps to make the market safe.

It has confirmed that the Broad Street cycle lane will again remain open during the 2024 celebrations and organisers are expected to plan events accordingly. 

However, the city council said it has already received early interest from several national and local organisations hoping to organise this year’s event and "is confident that a solution, building on learnings from last year, can be found".

Meanwhile it is working with Oxfordshire County Council to find a bigger space for festive celebrations from 2025 onwards.  

This year a programme of events will take place in various locations — such as the Covered Market and Gloucester Green.  

The city council is also working with the county council to identify a central location, ideally on Broad Street, for the city's Christmas tree which in 2023 was at Rose Hill Community Centre.

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The official procedure for organisations to submit their interest in holding events will begin in the coming weeks.

Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council and Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy and Partnerships, said: "It may feel like Christmas 2023 was just yesterday, but we're already planning ahead and eager to create a festive programme that reflects the diverse spirit of our city.   

“By using Broad Street along with other locations in the city centre, we aim to offer an exciting and inclusive experience for residents and visitors while we work with the county council on longer-term plans."