After almost 25 years, the controversial Cogges Link Road, in Witney, has been held up yet again. The public inquiry into the compulsory purchase of land for the road opened on Tuesday, but only very briefly.

After an hour, the inspector decided to adjourn, and relocate to the High Street Methodist Church in Witney. About 150 residents, some of whom had taken time off work, decided to attend the meeting, in a room with space for only 55.

The county council’s hands may have been tied in where they could hold the inquiry, but it quickly became apparent Eynsham Hall was not appropriate.

To call it a “fiasco”, as it was described, is probably a little unfair, but there was certainly an element of farce to the proceedings.

With almost everything the inspector said, those in the audience — many holding anti-link road signs — booed or clapped depending on the sentiment. The inspector has made the right decision in changing the location. The Methodist Hall has a much larger capacity and is in the heart of Witney.

We hope it encourages people to witness an event, the result of which could have a dramatic impact on the town.