LCWO welcomes the improvement of Oxford train station together with the widening of the underpass for cyclists and pedestrians. These actions will bring a number of significant benefits to local residents, including assisting in the reduction of personal CO2 emissions, through increased train availability and a safer cycling route under the railway bridge, the site of cycling injuries and loss of life in the past.

The recent announcement of the delays to completion of the developments and road closures is disappointing, frustrating and jeopardises the city’s ability to reach net zero targets. We recognise that the closure of Botley Road will cause major disruption and uncertainty to local residents, and we urge stakeholders to take a sensitive approach to closures and to consider for those with particular needs (e.g. reduced mobility), but not to disrupt the speed of improvement works. Therefore, the need to work together is paramount.

We urge all stakeholders, including Network Rail, Kier, Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council to complete the improvements without further delay.