Bicester residents could soon benefit from more year-round sports opportunities as plans for a new 3G football pitch take an important step forward.
Published: Wednesday, 4th March 2026
Cherwell District Council’s executive agreed at its meeting on Tuesday, 3 March, to progress to the next stage of the project, which would see an additional 3G pitch provided to complement the current 3G facility as part of the Whitelands Farm Sports Ground.
The expansion would help meet strong community demand and increase access to high-quality facilities for local clubs, with an emphasis on provision for women and girls.
The Football Foundation has already shown strong support for the scheme by completing initial surveys to support the feasibility of the project. Subject to certain criteria, up to 75 per cent of the project’s total estimated cost of £900,000 could be funded through the Football Foundation’s support, with the rest provided from developer contributions.
Councillor Rob Pattenden, Portfolio Holder for Healthy and Safe Communities, said: “This new pitch would be a great addition for Bicester. The demand for 3G playing surfaces is high, and expanding facilities at Whitelands Farm will give more residents the opportunity to enjoy sport, train regularly, and stay active all year round.
“By improving access to more sports facilities across our district, we’re helping to make it easier for people to benefit from having a healthier lifestyle and creating better, more connected local communities.”
The proposal supports Cherwell’s Playing Pitch Strategy, which highlights an identified need for increased 3G football facilities in Bicester. The new pitch would boost capacity for training, evening sessions, and community sports, while supporting the growth of local teams.
This project also aligns with the council’s broader aim to promote health and wellbeing, ensuring residents have access to facilities that enable them to lead active and connected lives.
The council will now work with the Football Foundation to prepare the formal funding application. If approved, the Foundation would lead procurement and construction in partnership with Cherwell District Council and Bicester Town Council, which will manage the facility once it is completed.