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Oxford News By Hana Edition 3
Oxford Outlook: Waiting for His Master’s Voice
Mark Skipworth
April 24, 2025
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 3
Oxford Outlook: Waiting for His Master’s Voice
THE fate of music giant HMV’s Oxford store is the story of the unloved high street in Britain today.
The shop in Cornmarket Street closed earlier this week after negotiations with its landlord, who owns the Clarendon Centre, which is being redeveloped, broke down.
According to the Express, reported in this week’s Oxford Newsletter, the closure has left loyal customers heartbroken. HMV, which first traded in the city more than 30 years ago, is seeking alternative premises, and has appealed to other landlords and agents to get in touch about potential new sites. What is particularly sad is that the Oxford store returned to the city under new ownership only in 2021 after a seven-year absence.
Against the odds, HMV appears to have succeeded in the digital age, weathering the storm of internet shopping and music streaming. These days, you’re as likely to find a plethora of T-shirts, posters and other pop memorabilia on sale in its shops as you are vinyl records and CDs. It’s an old fashioned formula that epitomises choice and leisure, which works for customers who still want to “look and touch” before they buy.
All the more galling, then, that this popular store in Cornmarket Street has closed. It’s not as if there are many high street success stories to brag about right now. On the contrary: the retail eco-system grows more fragile by the day, with shops shutting down in numbers across the country. Let’s hope the closure of this much-loved brand’s Oxford store is not lasting.
Talking of odds, what is the likelihood of an Englishman being Pope? Surely, you ask, Oxford’s own John Henry Newman was in the running in the 19th century? This former Anglican priest and Oxford don who converted to Roman Catholicism was the greatest theologian of his age. Yet, although he was made a cardinal in 1879, he was never part of the College of Cardinals that takes part in papal conclaves. So, for Newman, who was later canonised a saint, the answer was an emphatic “no”!
FYI: The odds of an English cardinal becoming the next Pope are long indeed – about 35/1 for Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, apparently our best bet. And you have to go back a long way to the last – and only – English Pope: one Nicholas Breakspear, who, in 1154, took Adrian IV as his rather exotic papal name.
Mark Skipworth | Oxford Editor
The Covered Market, where else?
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Databox
Population Growth
Oxford’s population reached approximately 165,200 as of mid-2023, according to the Office for National Statistics, reflecting a steady increase over recent years.Age Distribution
As of the 2021 Census, Oxford's population had a median age of 31 years, making it the youngest city in the South East. This youthful demographic is largely due to the substantial student population in the city.Ethnic Diversity
Oxford is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the UK. According to the 2021 Census, 29.3% of residents identified as belonging to minority ethnic groups, with the largest being Asian or Asian British at 15.4%.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Mine’s a pint, J.R.R!
Hyper-local news articles
Heartbreak in one of UK’s most beautiful cities as another major chain closes after 30 years
Express.co.uk · April 23, 2025
HMV on Cornmarket Street in Oxford has closed as of April 22 due to the landlord's decision not to renew its lease amid redevelopment plans for the Clarendon Centre, which are expected to last until 2028 or 2029. The store hopes to reopen nearby and assures customers that locations in High Wycombe and Banbury will remain operational.
College denied access to student loan funding after investigation
BBC News · April 22, 2025
UK Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has halted student loan funding for Oxford Business College due to serious concerns over its admissions practices and management, following an investigation that raised doubts about student qualifications. The college plans to challenge the decision legally, amidst wider scrutiny of fraudulent loan claims linked to smaller institutions partnering with registered universities.
Oxford academics used cup made from human skull at formal dinners until 2015
The Independent · April 22, 2025
A new book by Professor Dan Hicks of Oxford University reveals the controversial history of a chalice made from a human skull, potentially belonging to an enslaved Caribbean woman, which was used at Worcester College until 2015. The book, Every Monument Will Fall, calls for ethical considerations regarding the display of ancestral remains and highlights the ongoing impacts of colonial violence.
Local Elections 2025: Oxfordshire candidates debate social care
BBC News · April 22, 2025
Oxfordshire County Council faces a crisis in adult and children's social care, with rising costs potentially leading to care home closures. As local elections approach on May 1, candidates propose various solutions, including increased funding, reduced bureaucracy, and redirected spending to support essential services.
Inspector Morse actor who filmed in Oxford receives OBE
Oxford Mail · April 19, 2025
Cumbrian actor Kevin Whately, famed for his role as Robbie Lewis in "Inspector Morse" and its spin-off "Lewis," has been honored with an OBE for his contributions to drama and charity. At 74, he enjoys the freedom of retirement, fondly reminiscing about a conversation with Princess Anne at the ceremony where they bonded over their shared age and history with her animal charity.
Oxfordshire's county flower population sees 'dramatic increase'
BBC News · April 22, 2025
In a stunning comeback, the snake's-head fritillary has surged to over 29,500 blooms at Iffley Meadows in 2025, a dramatic increase from just 6,087 flowers the previous year, which had seen a 30-year low due to harsh weather. BBOWT senior ecologist Colin Williams expressed optimism about this remarkable resurgence, uplifting the spirits of volunteers dedicated to conservation efforts.
Sir Mo Farah among Oxford honorary degree recipients
BBC News · April 24, 2025
Sir Mo Farah, journalist Clive Myrie, and former New Zealand Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern will be awarded honorary degrees by the University of Oxford on June 25. Farah, a celebrated long-distance runner and Olympic champion, shared his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to becoming Team GB's most successful track and field athlete.
Oxford named among best UK cities for remote workers, according to new study
Remote work is reshaping our daily routines, offering flexibility and personalised environments, but also presenting challenges like distractions and isolation. Employers are responding by enhancing collaboration tools and prioritising company culture to maintain productivity and employee well-being.
Oxford woman arrested as police find dead body in flat block
Oxford Mail · April 22, 2025
A 68-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter after the body of a deceased woman in her 80s was discovered in a flat at Plowman Tower in Headington, following resident concerns about a strong smell. Police and forensic teams were on-site throughout the day, with some officers seen in hazmat suits as investigations continue.
Oxford is First of Three UK Cities to Get New 5G Small Cell Mobile Boost
ISPreview UK · April 23, 2025
Cornerstone (CTIL) has unveiled plans to launch a city-wide small cell network in Oxford in 2025, enhancing 5G connectivity by installing compact mobile base stations on existing street furniture. This initiative, supported by Signify and Dense Air, aims to boost mobile broadband access and drive economic growth in busy urban areas.
Pavement parking: Call for ban to improve school run safety
BBC News · April 23, 2025
Olly Glover, the Liberal Democrat MP for Didcot & Wantage, called for stricter regulations against pavement parking to enhance safety during school runs and encourage active travel among children, as only 47% currently walk or cycle to school. He proposed better infrastructure and increased cycling training to foster confidence in safe travel, highlighting a significant decline from 67% in 1975/76.
Police issue public warning as Oxfordshire prisoner escapes
Oxford Mail · April 20, 2025
Thames Valley Police are seeking public help to locate 26-year-old escaped prisoner Liam Carter, described as a 5ft 5in white male with blue eyes and facial hair, last seen in a grey tracksuit and blue jacket. Those who spot him are urged not to approach but to call 999, while tips can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Solar farm in Denchworth that will power 11,000 homes approved
BBC News · April 19, 2025
A solar farm at Manor Farm, Denchworth, Oxfordshire, has been approved after an appeal by Renewable Connections Developments Limited, despite initial rejection by the Vale of White Horse District Council. The 30MW project will generate enough energy to power around 11,000 homes annually, with the Planning Inspectorate highlighting its significant benefits.
Don’t miss the mummies!
Vote for your NHS Governor in Oxfordshire and have your say
Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust · April 23, 2025
The Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust invites public and staff members in Oxfordshire, BaNES, Swindon, and Wiltshire to vote for candidates in the Council of Governors elections, with 3 seats available for the Public Oxfordshire constituency and 2 for Staff Mental Health Services. For more information and to cast your vote before the deadline, visit www.cesvotes.com/oxfordhealth2025.
Oxford named among UK's hottest hotel markets for 2025
Oxford Mail · April 23, 2025
Oxford has risen to share second place in Colliers' 2025 UK Hotel Market Index, fueled by impressive growth in Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) and a 9.27% increase in Average Daily Rate (ADR), now at £126. The city's unique blend of academic prestige and cultural richness, along with a constrained hotel development pipeline, continues to bolster its hospitality sector's strong performance.
Witney flood works get £20,000 government funding boost
BBC News · April 21, 2025
Witney, Oxfordshire, is set to receive £20,000 in government funding for flood defenses as part of a £2.65 billion national investment aimed at protecting homes from increased flooding risks exacerbated by climate change. The Witney Flood Alleviation Scheme will involve constructing bunds along the Windrush River and includes monitoring sensors to better understand flooding behavior.
'Famous ghost' caught on camera lurking in doorway of Oxford castle
Daily Mirror · April 17, 2025
An intriguing photograph captured by Australian tourist Lewy Jones at Oxford Castle may reveal the ghost of Empress Matilda, known for her legendary escape during a 12th-century siege. This sighting adds to the castle's rich history of hauntings, including tales of a foul-mouthed monk and a spirit of a small girl, as the venue prepares for an exciting new exhibition showcasing its ghostly lore.
Sport
Oxford United
It’s tight, but The Yellows should be alright. Survival in the Championship – arguably the most brutal league in Europe – is a tough task. A 1-1 draw away to Cardiff pinched a precious point to leave United three pips above the relegation zone. Two games to go: Sunderland (h) and Swansea (a).
Property
Ellen DeGeneres shares first sneak peek at home in Cotswolds Yahoo News - April 22, 2025 Ellen DeGeneres has given fans a glimpse of her new Cotswolds home, where she and wife Portia de Rossi have settled after facing local challenges like flooding. Recently, DeGeneres shared a heartwarming moment of de Rossi capturing a rainbow, highlighting the joys of their life together in the picturesque countryside. |
£5million Cotswolds country house to go to lucky winner Oxford Mail - April 22, 2025 Enter the Omaze Million Pound House Draw for a chance to win a breathtaking 17th-century country house in the Cotswolds, complete with a guest cottage, all legal fees covered, and £250,000 cash to help you settle in. With entries open until May 26, this unique opportunity also supports Guide Dogs, ensuring at least £1 million is donated to assist those with vision impairments. |
Hotel review: Department store transformed into Oxford's newest hotel, The Store Nine - April 19, 2025 Discover the luxurious Store in Oxford, a stunning hotel that beautifully blends modern amenities with the historic charm of the former Boswells department store. Enjoy exquisite dining at Treadwell, relax in the spa, and explore the rich history of Oxford, including iconic sites for Harry Potter fans—all just a short trip from London! |
Oxford 'scary' rats infest single mum's Peabody home This is Oxfordshire - April 17, 2025 A single mother in Newman Place, Littlemore, Oxford, has turned to the press for help with a severe rat infestation that has persisted for months, leaving her children scared and the housing association, Peabody, unresponsive despite her pleas. Residents of the new housing development are expressing frustration over ongoing issues, including mould and poor management, feeling their living conditions are unacceptable. |
What’s on in Oxford this weekend?
All photos are credited to Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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