Controversial plans for a new cycle path and landscaping at an Oxford park will be back before the planning committee. 

Oxford Direct Services had its application for Donnington Recreation Ground initially permitted by Oxford City Council's planning committee in October last year. 

The scheme includes the removal of existing fencing and formation of footpath and cycle path, as well as the installation of staggered, timber bollards, timber kissing gate and associated landscaping works and associated signage. 

However, it will be back before the committee on Tuesday, October 15 due to some changes being made. The proposal has split opinion with 14 objections and 49 supporting comments. 

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Donnington Recreation Ground (Image: Oxford Mail) The planning officers have recommended permission, and in their report they said: “The application was originally reported to committee in October 2023 where members resolved to grant permission subject to conditions and the completion of a legal agreement but since then changes have been made to the proposed landscaping and biodiversity net gain which officers consider should be reported back to committee.

“The proposed path and associated works would not have any adverse impacts with regard to visual or residential amenity.

"It is considered that any harm that would arise from the removal of the trees to facilitate the development has been mitigated through additional tree planting on site.

"The proposed development is not considered to have a detrimental impact on ecology and would achieve a net gain in biodiversity in accordance with national and local planning policies.”

Supporter Jorge Gaitan, of Clive Road, said: “I support the proposed project since it will benefit directly more than 100 young football players so a formal arrangement with more pitches to play and the development of welfare facilities for the club can be progressed.

"It will also benefit indirectly many other families living in the surrounding area since it will add value to the neighbourhood and provide quality redeveloped football facilities for the surrounding community.”

Objector Peter Bennett, of Freelands Road, said: “I object to the cycle route because the felling of the trees and the alternatives routes have been dismissed without any discussion with local residents.

“My other concerns are the spacing of the wooden bollards, they will not slow down cyclists using E-bikes or cargo bikes weighing up to half ton.

“This is an accident waiting to happen. My other objection is the kissing gate purposed for the existing entrance into Meadow Lane.

"The space does not allow for anyone with a pushchair or wheelchair user to access Meadow Lane.”