A dispute has emerged in Oxfordshire regarding the continued postponement of a million-pound sports facility.
Thomas Ashby, a local councillor, has urged Witney Town Council to initiate a review process examining the management of the West Witney Sports Club development following repeated setbacks in its delivery.
The scheme, situated near Burford Road, represents the most significant improvement to local sports infrastructure in over two decades.
Its purpose is to enhance support for grassroots athletic activities throughout the region.
Originally targeted for completion on May 22, the initiative will now extend well into the new football campaign, several months past its initial commitment.
The development encompasses updated changing accommodation for male and female users alongside officials, improved environmental performance and full accessibility throughout the premises.
The venue accommodates various disciplines including cricket, tennis, air rifle and shooting sports.
Its establishment originally stemmed from concerns raised by Witney football organisations regarding the inadequacy of existing local provisions.
The latest postponement shifts the completion date to October, surpassing the commencement of the football season and prompting strong criticism from Ashby.
The overall budget stands at £1.85 million, comprising £1 million designated for renovating the West Witney Sports and Social Club building and £850,000 allocated for new construction adjacent to the services and works depot.
Funding originates from Section 106 developer contributions, a substantial loan and council reserves set aside specifically for this purpose.
Witney Town Council has verified that the scheme is anticipated to reach completion during autumn 2026, acknowledging that progress has exceeded initial projections partly due to circumstances beyond the authority’s immediate influence.
The authority confirmed it remains in active dialogue with involved parties and continues pursuing appropriate contractual and legal remedies to safeguard public expenditure.
Council Leader Ruth Smith indicated that although construction has required more time than originally projected, arrangements are secure for delivering the facility to necessary specifications, with staff diligently addressing remaining work to reopen the club at the earliest opportunity.
She characterised the completed development as a significant benefit for Witney’s sporting organisations.
Regarding the proposed review, the council stated that comprehensive assessment of substantial projects constitutes standard procedure, enabling identification of effective methods, areas requiring development and insights applicable to subsequent schemes.
This approach forms an integral component of the authority’s project management framework independent of external recommendations.