Oxford United has issued a statement after proposals have been put forward to move the club to a new home between Oxford and Kidlington

Discussions have been taking place between the council and the club since late 2021 about leasing council-owned land for the development of an 18,000-capacity football stadium.

A site at Stratfield Brake, on the edge of Kidlington had initially been proposed by the club, but the council now says there were "considerable challenges", with officers now proposing a location south of Kidlington roundabout, west of Banbury Road and east of Frieze Way – close to Oxford Parkway railway station.

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The League One side has confirmed the club is in “preliminary discussions” in regards to the alternative site for the stadium.  

An Oxford United spokesperson said: “Oxford United continues to consider any viable site for their proposed new stadium and can confirm that the club are in preliminary discussions regarding a potential alternative site for their proposed new stadium, located at the land to the east of Frieze Way / South of Kidlington Roundabout.

“Our search for a new home has been well publicised and given the pressing need for securing a sustainable future home, it is important and right that the club do not rule out any alternative sites at this stage.

“The discussions are at a very early stage, so we cannot confirm any details but any site will remain subject to contractual negotiations, obtaining planning permissions and the relevant statutory consents. We also remain committed to extensive consultation with the local community in the new year.

“The club will continue to explore all options available to provide a long-term and sustainable future home that benefits both the club and our local community. Given the dwindling timeframe available to us and the interest from fans, local residents and the wider Oxfordshire community, it is imperative that a decision about a preferred site is resolved as soon as possible.”

The decision about whether or not to enter into formal negotiations with OUFC about the lease of land will be taken in public at a cabinet meeting on January 24.

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This story was written by Sophie Perry. She joined the team in 2021 as a digital reporter.

You can get in touch with her by emailing: sophie.perry@newsquest.co.uk

Follow her on Twitter @itssophieperry

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