Oxford record shop’s possible closure a ‘travesty’, say fans

Riverman Records, a successful second-hand record shop and music store in Walton Street, Oxford, has been run by Andy Tucker since 2019.

It quickly became a favourite with music fans in the city, as one of just two spots where the old souls can buy vinyl and the only spot for second-hand steals.

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But a planning application submitted by the landlords of the premises to Oxford City Council has revealed a proposal to turn the shop into a one-bedroom flat.

Andy Tucker, owner, Riverman Records, Walton Street, Oxford (Image: Andy Ffrench)

Although, the plans ‘didn’t come as a shock’ to Mr Tucker, as his landlord had advised him that he was exploring the change due to new environmental standards for commercial properties coming into force, his customers weren’t on the same page.

More than 20 comments were left by fans of the shop on the council’s planning portal, all of them objecting to the loss of the independent music store.

Rory Campbell, of Oxford, said: “Riverman Records is an important part of the music community in Oxford – a place for music-lovers and musicians to meet and browse and form connections, find out about local gigs and music-making opportunities.

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“The shop is an important hub for music in Oxford, and especially when so much of our music infrastructure is under threat, it is vitally important to the cultural life of the city to have independent shops like Riverman.”

Andy Tucker, owner, Riverman Records, Walton Street, Oxford (Image: Andy Ffrench)

While Aiden Canaday, also of Oxford, said: “It’s a destination for music enthusiasts around the country and has built up a great reputation as well as supporting the music community by advertising shows around Oxford and spreading the word.

“It adds to the character of the area – do we need to lose another cool, cultural spot in central Oxford?”

This sentiment was echoed in all 21 comments left by locals, who lamented the city having it’s ‘cultural heart drained for endless new residential needs’, as one commenter put it.

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Geoff Birchenall, of Bampton, said the shop’s closure ‘would be an absolute travesty’, while James Cooper, of Oxford, added: “Riverman Records is a gem. Brilliant record shop and to remove it will leave the area culturally bereft.”

There was also a strong reaction to the proposed loss of a unique, successful, independent trader at a time when so many retailers are struggling.

The current lease for the record shop in Walton Street expires in March 2027, and Mr Tucker said he will continue trading at least until then, and its future remains undecided while the planning application is considered by the council.