How the Meadow is Enjoyed

Informal Recreation

The space contained within Oxpens Meadow is very versatile. Fringed by trees and shrubs, the Meadow is composed of gently undulating grassland. Most recreation is informal – groups of students from the Oxford and Cherwell Valley College across the road kicking a ball around during lunchtime, local people walking dogs at any hour of the day, and, on fine summer evenings, small groups of people having a chat or a picnic.

The application for Town Green status was supported by over 60 witness statements. Among the informal activities observed were children playing, fishing, bird watching, kite flying, jogging, feeding the ducks, sunbathing, sketching and photography.

Survey of users

In the first week of June 2009 the Friends of Oxpens Meadow carried out a survey of users of the Meadow.  Sampling took place 3 times per day for 7 days. Main uses of the Meadow were: sitting/chilling out; walking; reading/studying; cycling; dog walking; sports/physical activity; other (en route to shops, railway station, work).

Organised activities

But that’s not all! Oxpens Meadow is also used for more formal types of recreation and entertainment. There are the visits by the circus, hot air balloon launching, the annual Gay Pride event, bungee jumping, martial arts classes, surveying practice by students from the College and the finishing point for long distance cycle events.

If the Meadow were to be reduced to about one-half of its present size few of the current recreational opportunities would be feasible. Do we really want to see that happen?