OXFORD United supporter groups have welcomed a ‘huge moment for Oxfordshire’, after the U’s submitted a planning application for a new stadium.

United announced on Friday that the club had submitted a full planning application to Cherwell District Council, for the construction of a 16,000-capacity ground at The Triangle, south of Kidlington Roundabout.

Previous forecasts for when an application would be lodged had been the most recent autumn or Christmas, but both self-imposed deadlines passed with no application submitted.

However, the application has now been sent, with the proposed stadium set to be the first in the country to be powered solely by electricity, while a quarter of the ground is set to allow for safe standing.

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Oxford United Supporters’ Panel chair Paul Scaysbrook said: “Without a doubt, it’s a huge step. It’s been a bit frustrating with the time it’s taken, but the club was making sure all the bases had been covered, and that everything is in place.

“It’s a positive move forward, and let’s hope we can get a decision sooner rather than later because it’s getting a bit tight for time.

“It’s not just for the fans, as this is a huge moment for Oxfordshire as a whole. If you can build a stadium that’s for the whole of the county, then it’s a huge step for Oxfordshire.

“The frustrating thing was the lack of information. When there’s no information, that’s when rumours can spread.

“It was a case of getting it right before submitting, and I think they’ve probably got it right in the long run.”

The U’s have also confirmed a pedestrian bridge over Oxford Road will be part of a separate planning application.

Scaysbrook said: “The bridge was a big issue, with the road closure. As a resident, I wouldn’t have been happy with the closure, but the bridge can only be a positive as well.

“I can see the pros and cons of it, but it’s got to be the most practical solution.”

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OxVox chair Paul Peros added: “It’s a massive step forward. I’ve always said that planning is where this needs to be properly viewed, not just for fans, but for Kidlington residents, as things like the scale of the stadium and road closures can be explained.

“It’s a huge moment. There are always delays with things like this, with the scale of what’s going on.

“Communication could’ve been better, but that’s gone and we’re moving forward now. The communication has been much better recently though, and it’s an exciting time for fans.”

Looking ahead, Peros said: “These things tend to spill out slowly, and the professionals will be able to look at the merits of the application.

“It’s an ongoing process, and alterations may be made along the way. Fans will have to be patient as it’s such a big project, but it’s really exciting that it’s underway now.”

United are looking to build a new home as the club’s licence agreement at the Kassam Stadium runs out in 2026.