Oxpens meadow

Oxpens meadow is one of the last remaining vestiges of open green space in Oxford’s West End area. It is a well-maintained field next to the ice rink used by walkers, residents and sportspeople. It is owned by the City Council and measures about 2 hectares (5 acres). It’s bounded to the south by the river Thames; to the east by the Castle Mill Stream and to the west by land owned by British Rail Board (Residuary) Ltd.

For decades the Meadow has been threatened. If the City’s current plans for the redevelopment of the West End are realised, only about half of the Meadow would remain for public enjoyment. The site has been earmarked by the City Council as part of its West End rejuvenation scheme to include a conference centre, a police station, a relief road and riverside apartments.

These threats prompted SENDRA (St Ebbes New Development Residents’ Association) to apply to Oxfordshire County Council to register the Meadow as a Town Green under the Commons Act 2006. Town Green status would ensure the retention of Oxpens Meadow in perpetuity as a public open space. The Friends of Oxpens Meadow (FOM) was born. CPRE Oxfordshire strongly support FOM’s efforts.