Sir – The letter from M. Palmer of Witney (Letters, February 25) expresses the need for an improved transport system between Oxford and Witney.
He quotes journey times of 1½ to 2 hours from Witney to central Oxford. Over 50 years ago, train times from Oxford to Witney were 30 minutes by diesel railcar and 40 minutes by steam train, including intermediate stops! Reusing the rail trackbed for a light rail tram-train system would be an environmentally friendly way of providing an efficient mode of travel, as Martin Smith points out in his letter (February 25).
The beauty of such a modern tram system is its flexibility. It is possible to extend the light rail lines into or through town centres by running along the approach roads. This could apply to Witney and Carterton, as well as at Eynsham, where the former trackbed forms part of a B road.
The subsidising of public transport in Oxfordshire should include such a scheme as this.
David Eldridge, Secretary, Railfuture, Thames Valley Branch, Berinsfield
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