RAIL passengers are being asked for their views on a multi-million pound plans to make Oxford Railway Station fit for the future.
Network Rail has applied to the Secretary of State for Transport for a compulsory acquisition order for land needed to carry out work creating a new western entrance to the station and other uses.
Following a number of objections, some of which Network Rail say have been resolved, the application has to be heard before a planning inspector at a public inquiry.
The inquiry, at Jury’s Inn on Godstow Road, Wolvercote, is scheduled to last two days with a final decision expected in the New Year.
It is being live streamed (details below).
Objections to be considered by the planning inspector include:
• Changes to nursery building on Roger Dudman Way: Network Rail needs to acquire a small piece of the land currently used by the nursery to accommodate the changes that will be made to Sheepwash Bridge. This will require alterations to the corner of the building, including removing and rebuilding a section of external wall. Network Rail said it has been in discussion with Midcounties Cooperative which owns the land, about temporarily relocating it to Beckett Street car park, but no agreement has been reached.
• Removal of Pumpkin Cafe: Rail Gourmet UK and Select Service Partner are seeking compensation for their cafe being removed from platform 4 of the station. So far they have declined all offers made by Network Rail.
• Osney Lane footbridge: Mill Street residents have expressed concerns over the removal of the bridge. Network Rail said it has clarified that it will not be removed as part of the project, insisting it is only the pier nearest Mill Street that needs replacing. The planning inspector has asked that Network Rail help clarify this during the hearing.
• Householders' concerns: David Bradbury, a property owner in Venneit Close, has objected on the basis that he felt his access would be affected.
• Use of the Youth Hostel: Network Rail has agreed terms to purchase the YHA building – which has been used to shelter homeless people. The sale is expected to be completed next year.
The schedule for the public inquiry has now been published. It is expected to last two days.
It is being live streamed for anyone that can’t attend in person but would like to watch. Info on how to access is now on the project page: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/our-routes/western/oxfordshire/oxford-corridor-phase-2/
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