OXFORD City Stars have added their support to the idea of a potential new sporting venue at Water Eaton.

Oxfordshire County Council leader Ian Hudspeth confirmed this week informal talks had taken place with Oxford United over moving from the Kassam Stadium to a site next to the new Oxford Parkway railway station.

It has now emerged Stars have been involved in similar preliminary discussions with the county and city councils over the possibilty of building an arena on the site.

The ice hockey club, who won English National League Division 2 South last season, play at Oxford Ice Rink.

The city council-owned facility, built in 1984, is limited to a capacity of 890 spectators, which was reached several times by the Stars on the way to the title.

James Schall, club spokesman, said: “Many US and European cities have arenas and stadiums in the same location, hosting the main sports teams.

“Sharing travel and sports infrastructure at one location would deliver a world-class facility, which our city deserves.”

He added: “A larger arena would enable the team to grow and open up huge opportunities for the future of ice hockey in Oxford.

“As a club we welcome the idea and are excited about the potential of working with Oxford United and all local authorities.”

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