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South Oxfordshire District Council

December 22, 2025

Council leader calls for answers on emergency discharge from the proposed Abingdon reservoir

Published 22 December 2025 The Leader of South Oxfordshire District Council, Cllr Maggie Filipova-Rivers, has this week written to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, in relation to Thames Water’s Water Resource Management Plan (WRMP) and the South East Strategic Reservoir (SESRO) near Abingdon. Cllr Filipova-Rivers has called for clarity regarding how emergency discharge from the proposed Abingdon reservoir will be managed. She is also calling […]

Map of Oxfordshire and Berkshire as part of a combined mayoral strategic authority.

December 19, 2025

Thames Valley devolution expression of interest submitted to government

An expression of interest letter to create a mayoral strategic authority (MSA) within the Thames Valley has been submitted to government following discussions and agreement by 13 councils within the region.

South Oxfordshire District Council

December 18, 2025

Council expresses frustration at further delays for Didcot GP surgery

Further delays to the delivery of the new GP surgery at Great Western Park in Didcot have generated disappointment and frustration this week in South Oxfordshire.

South Oxfordshire District Council logo

December 17, 2025

Fair Treatment and Cohesion Motion

Published 17 December 2025 Statement by South Oxfordshire District Council: We condemn all intimidation, violence or harassment of minority groups in South Oxfordshire. We continue to stand in solidarity with everyone who has made South Oxfordshire their home.   Misinformation and the fear, suspicion, and intolerance that it generates must be challenged. We are a cohesive and welcoming district, […]

I picture of a man getting into a taxi

December 17, 2025

Driver banned and fined for offering illegal taxi rides at Henley Regatta 

South Oxfordshire District Council has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance approach to unlawful taxi operations after a driver was caught illegally plying for hire during Henley Regatta.  Mr Arshed Abdul Aziz, 67, of Bruce Road, Woodley, Reading, appeared before Oxford Magistrates’ Court on Friday 12 December when he pleaded guilty to: unlawfully plying for hire in Henley on 5 July 2025, failing to have the […]

December 16, 2025

South Oxfordshire District Council Leader Christmas Message 2025

Published 16 December 2025 A statement from Maggie Filipova-Rivers, Leader of South Oxfordshire District Council As we reach the end of another year, I want to extend my warmest Christmas wishes to everyone across South Oxfordshire. This season is a reminder of the importance of community, connection, and looking out for one another, values that […]

A group of adults sat at a table learning

December 16, 2025

New year, new skills as free course launches in Berinsfield

Published 16 December 2025 A free 8-week Improving Skills programme starts in February next year especially for Berinsfield residents. South Oxfordshire District Council is working in partnership with Abingdon & Witney College, UKAEA, National Careers Service, Enterprise Oxfordshire, DWP, Community Catalysts and Williams Jet Tenders Ltd, to provide this free training opportunity, which will cover […]

December 15, 2025

Arts Centres in Southern Oxfordshire launch new websites 

Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot and The Beacon Arts, Entertainment and Community Centre in Wantage have launched new websites to make it easier for visitors to explore what’s on offer.  As part of their ongoing Action Plans to ensure long-term sustainability, these updates are key steps in enhancing the venues’ services and ensuring they continue […]

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December 12, 2025

Joint Local Plan examination hearings could continue after Government announcement

The examination hearings for South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils Joint Local Plan could continue after the government announced it intends to remove the Duty to Co-operate from the plan making process.

South Oxfordshire District Council

December 12, 2025

Cllr Maggie Filipova-Rivers elected as new Leader at South Oxfordshire District Council

Cllr Maggie Filipova-Rivers is the new Leader of South Oxfordshire District Council. She was chosen by councillors during a vote at the Council meeting last night (Thursday 11 December 2025).