Emergency responders dealt with a fire that broke out in a field adjacent to a park and ride facility in Oxford, with an investigation now under way.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service received the call regarding the blaze at 5.40pm on Tuesday, August 25.

The incident occurred on land situated opposite the Redbridge Park and Ride location.

A total of three fire appliances were deployed to tackle the flames, which were brought under control by 8pm.

Crews utilised high-pressure hose reels alongside beaters to suppress the fire and stop it spreading further.

The incident necessitated the closure of a section of Abingdon Road, which lies adjacent to the A34 Eastern Bypass.

This temporary measure prevented buses from serving the park and ride stop.

Services operated by Oxford Bus Company, including routes X40, 300 and X1, were observed queued along the A4144 after being unable to reach the park and ride facility.

As a temporary arrangement, passengers were directed to use stops at Bertie Place on Old Abingdon Road instead.

Authorities indicated that the cause of the fire remains undetermined at this stage, though the possibility of it having been ignited deliberately has not been eliminated from inquiries.

Thames Valley Police confirmed that officers were notified of what has been classified as a criminal damage incident at approximately 7.30pm.

No casualties were reported in connection with the fire, and no individuals have been detained.

The matter has been logged while further investigations proceed.

Anna Railton, who serves as deputy leader of the Labour group on Oxford City Council, advised that concerns had previously been raised regarding the council-owned site and the need for grass maintenance.

She noted that these recommendations had not been actioned.

The affected area, formerly used for grazing horses, forms part of a council-owned field where the local planning authority has proposals for a major residential development comprising flats and houses, to be delivered through the city-owned housing provider OxPlace.

Drainage work along the ditch separating the Rivermead estate from the scorched land had been scheduled for completion prior to the fire.

According to Ms Railton, this maintenance had not yet been carried out.

The council has been asked to provide comment.

Speaking publicly, Ms Railton expressed gratitude to the emergency services for their swift response in containing the fire.

She emphasised the importance of establishing the cause before drawing conclusions, describing the site as one earmarked for future development that remains securely fenced with no public entry permitted.

She indicated that the council would review the management arrangements for the location ahead of construction, noting the site’s history as former landfill and stating that expert guidance would be sought regarding appropriate measures to reduce fire risk, which could potentially include mowing operations.

She also highlighted the need for vigilance during dry conditions given how rapidly fires can escalate and endanger lives.

The incident follows other fire-related callouts attended by the service throughout the week, including a blaze in the village of Goosey on Monday, August 24.

At Pinnells Farm, four fire appliances were deployed from approximately 3pm until 4.45pm to tackle the most severe aspects of a fire.

Crews eventually extinguished the flames and secured the agricultural property by applying water to affected areas.