Tensions ran high as civic chiefs progressed with a move for an Oxford park to be developed into 30 homes. 

Oxford City Council's cabinet made the appropriation decision on Wednesday, October 16 for New Hinksey Playground in Bertie Place, known locally as Bertie Park. 

Around 15 members of the Save Bertie Park campaign group attended and were shellshocked as the decision was made. 

A member of the audience shouted: “Stop lying. You're corrupt, why not use the Odeon for housing? We have enough empty offices and hotels.”

Another yelled: “You are putting kids' lives in danger. When somebody dies, it will be on your heads.”

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Michael Mowat (Image: Newsquest) Appropriation means the park's use will be officially changed from recreation to housing. 

After the decision was made, council leader Susan Brown said: “I know that is not what you wanted to hear, but that is the decision of this cabinet. We have in mind the severe shortage of housing in this city, so this is a balanced decision. 

“I'm very sorry that people were sufficiently upset that they disrupted the meeting.

"I do understand people's emotions about these issues, but we also have a duty to make sure we make adequate provision for social housing in Oxford.”

Earlier in the meeting, campaign member Michael Mowat urged the cabinet to reject the proposal.

He said: “We recognise the need for affordable housing but we question the council's prioritisation of housing over other things on this specific site.

"On sites elsewhere it prioritises other things like job creation over housing. We advocate for exploring alternative solutions which take into account all community needs. 

“The land is still required for the purpose for which it is currently held. This is supported by extensive data collected by the campaign.

"The council argues that the new facilities will not have a disproportionately negative impact on the protected characteristics. 

“Officers instruct the cabinet to strike a balance between different land uses in light of wider community interests, taking a broad view of local needs. But this is not the legal test.

"We therefore ask you to reject the recommendation before and not appropriate Bertie Park for this social housing scheme.”

Linda Smith, cabinet member for housing and communities, said: “Oxford needs homes because we are the least affordable place to buy a home in the UK.

"People on average incomes are priced out of the housing market. The cost of housing is pushing people into hardship. 

“The houses at Bertie Place will be social rents and shared ownership. I think the plans do get the balance right in providing housing and protecting the quality of the local amenities.”

The decision was approved unanimously.