CAN Oxford cope with a surging population? That is the question our front-page story poses today after the 2011 census found a 12 per cent increase in residents over 10 years.

City council leader Bob Price says immigration has played a part, along with a strong economy.

As we report today, this is putting increasing pressure on housing, jobs, schools and services for the elderly, who are also increasing in number.

For a city like Oxford, the problems that lie ahead are clear. With little land to provide extra homes, there will be more battles over housing plans.

With house prices already through the roof, the increase in population further risks widening the gulf between the haves and have-nots.

More could be forced into outlying towns, putting more demands on transport and services in the rest of the county. The question is, how much more can the city grow before it runs out of room?

And if numbers keep rising, we need to think what the consequences could be – a city unable to provide for its residents or a privileged enclave for those who can afford it.