Liberal Democrats Welcome Oxfordshire Rail Strategy (Wantage and Didcot Liberal Democrats)

Wantage and Didcot Liberal Democrats <info@wantagelibdems.org.uk>

Liberal Democrats Welcome Oxfordshire Rail Strategy

January 19, 2012 12:06 AM
Originally published by Oxfordshire Liberal Democrats

Train Hot on the heels of the Coalition Government's approval for the East - West Rail Link and more recently the High Speed Rail 2 proposals, at Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 17th January, the Oxfordshire Rail Strategy was given the go ahead. This will now go out for consultation in February with a view to incorporate the final document into the latest Local Transport Plan 3. Liberal Democrats have welcomed the strategy as this will bring opportunities for business and the local economy and make public transport a viable alternative to our busy and congested roads in the county.

Cllr. David Turner, shadow portfolio holder for transport said "This is a very comprehensive document designed so that we will have a chance of achieving our rail priorities in Oxfordshire. I welcome the aim of gaining the long overdue Grove/Wantage rail head. This is particularly welcome given the expansion of housing planned for the area and the transport needs of the Harwell Science Area. In addition I welcome the recognition of the importance of the Culham station to the Culham Science Park. This report will put on record the aspirations and priorities of Oxfordshire to help develop our local economy whilst helping to protect our environment."

Cllr. Zoé Patrick, Liberal Democrat Leader said "Liberal Democrats in Oxfordshire have always called for better public transport and in particular, trying to make sure that plans are in place well ahead of any increased housing development. This strategy sets out the areas where growth is taking place and will hopefully ensure that measures are taken now to incorporate a comprehensive rail network."

"Locally, I welcome the commitment to re-opening the Wantage Road station in Grove, which has been something I have campaigned for over the years and now looks closer to reality."