The Oxford University Student Union has temporarily closed following “increasing concerns” over representing the student body “effectively”.

In a statement, the Oxford SU confirmed it closed yesterday (March 25) to undergo a transformation period to address “challenges” in an “urgent turnaround plan.”

Numerous scandals have arisen at the SU over the past 12 months, including president Danial Hussain being suspended after being accused of “sharing a porn video”, according to reports from the university's student newspaper The Oxford Student.

READ MORE: Company apologises over further disruption to Botley Road

There have also been reports of the chair of the student council resigning following a “disregard for democratic principles”,  the SU blocking a motion of no confidence in the SU president and questions over the efficiency of sabbatical officers.

The SU will remain closed until April 2 while the "transformation plan" is implemented.

A joint statement from the Oxford SU and the university said: “In recent years, there have been increasing concerns about the SU’s ability to operate and represent the student body effectively.

“This has also created additional pressure on sabbatical officers.

“In light of the challenges faced, Oxford SU’s trustees, which include sabbatical officers, have decided the situation is unsustainable, and that an urgent turnaround plan is needed.

“The SU has invited the university to participate in this process.

“The turnaround plan will transform the governance and operations of the SU, seeking to improve the Union’s effectiveness and its representation of students across the collegiate University.

“Its ambitions include providing improved clarity among students about the SU’s purpose, a more responsive student representation system and a structure that better supports the sabbatical officers.”

READ MORE: Main road to close for two weeks as motorists warned about delays

The work in the transformation period will be led by a transformation committee, co-chaired by the SU and the university, with a change director appointed by the Oxford SU.

Other activities, such as Oxford SU’s advice service, the freshers’ fair and the student campaigns for under-represented groups, will continue.

The current students’ council will be replaced by a consultative system to allow student voices to be heard in the transformation planning.

The statement added: “The students’ union is committed to effective student representation, a standard that we have failed at in the past.

“At the start of the year, in consultation with the university and recognising serious improvements had to be made, an independent review of the students’ union was launched.  

“Alongside this, the organisation has also been conducting internal analysis around its’ effectiveness, governance and financial stability.

“From this, it was clear that urgent action was needed.

“With the independent review nearing conclusion, we believe now is the right time for the transformation plan.

“Our goal is to deliver a students’ union that meets the high standards our students rightly deserve.”