Labour Councillor Louise Upton is poised to take on the prestigious role of Lord Mayor of Oxford for the 2025/26 civic year. The announcement was made by Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, during the council meeting on 27 January 2025.
As Lord Mayor, Councillor Upton will represent the city at numerous civic events and engagements, from leading Oxford’s Remembrance service to visiting schools and hosting charity events. She will officially take on the role during the traditional mayor-making ceremony at Oxford Town Hall this May.
Mayor-Making Ceremony
The mayor-making ceremony is a long-standing tradition in Oxford, during which the outgoing Lord Mayor, Councillor Mike Rowley, will formally pass the chains of office to Councillor Upton. This event will also see Councillor Mike Rowley assume the position of Deputy Lord Mayor, while Councillor Andrew Gant will take on the role of Sheriff of Oxford.
As part of the ceremony, the bells of Carfax Tower will be rung by the Oxford Society of Change Ringers to mark the occasion, adding a touch of history to the event.
A Trailblazer with a Diverse Background
Originally from Shropshire, Councillor Louise Upton first arrived in Oxford as a student, completing a degree in Biochemistry at New College. A natural leader, she captained the university’s Women’s Football Team during her time there. Councillor Upton later earned a PhD in Cell Physiology at University College London before embarking on a research career. She has worked in Paris and spent 25 years as a neuroscience researcher at the University of Oxford, where she continues to teach.
Elected to Oxford City Council in 2013, Councillor Upton represents Walton Manor ward. Over the years, she has served as Cabinet Member for Planning and held the position of Cycling Champion, reflecting her commitment to sustainable urban development.
Responsibilities of the Lord Mayor
The Lord Mayor of Oxford is a ceremonial role steeped in history, with the first recorded Mayor, Laurence Kepeharme, serving from 1205 to 1209. The title of Lord Mayor was granted to Oxford by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1962. Today, the Lord Mayor typically undertakes over 300 engagements annually, encompassing everything from royal visits to community group meetings.
A significant part of the role involves raising funds for chosen charities. Councillor Upton has selected The Gatehouse, OXSRAD, and TRAX as her official charities for 2025/26, ensuring her tenure will have a meaningful impact on local communities.
Councillor Upton’s Vision
Speaking about her appointment, Councillor Upton expressed her enthusiasm:
“I am so looking forward to being the Lord Mayor. We live in one of the most vibrant, most historic, most diverse cities in the UK, and I will be incredibly proud to represent every single one of our citizens.
“The number of engagements is daunting, but it will be an amazing opportunity to meet many of the wonderful people who make Oxford tick.”
Councillor Louise Upton
Engaging with the Community
Councillor Upton’s focus on inclusivity and community engagement aligns with the spirit of the role. Residents will have opportunities to connect with her through various civic events and initiatives throughout her term.
Her selection of charities highlights her dedication to addressing social issues and fostering a sense of unity in Oxford.
- The Gatehouse supports adults who are homeless or vulnerably housed.
- OXSRAD provides accessible recreational activities for people with disabilities.
- TRAX helps young people gain skills and confidence through practical training programmes.
Councillor Upton’s appointment as Lord Mayor signifies a continuation of Oxford’s proud tradition of civic leadership, combined with a fresh perspective. Her academic background, community focus, and commitment to sustainability promise an impactful and engaging year ahead.
Oxford’s residents can look forward to an inspiring year of civic representation and charitable work as Councillor Louise Upton assumes her new role.
For more information on the Lord Mayor’s activities and how to support the chosen charities, visit the Oxford City Council website.
