Oxford's rail station expansion plans step forward

Network Rail's plans to build a fifth platform and new second station entrance have recently been approved by Oxford City Council's planning committee.

The Oxford Mail reports that a funding bid will now be made to the Department of Transport with the intention that station developments could be completed as soon as 2024 

The expansion may also coincide with the opening of the Cowley branch line to the south of the city, with new stations at Oxford Science Park and Oxford Business Park. 

"Any expansion to Oxford's public transport network can only be of benefit, both to the local environment and in reducing journey times around the city. The recent growth of the science and business parks is testament to Oxford's success as an emerging science, innovation and technology centre of excellence, but to rely on road access to the parks is unsustainable. The public transport infrastructure to connect and enhance this developing edge of our city now also needs to be improved".