Andy Holding, spokesperson for the Wantage and Grove Station Supporters Group, has expressed disappointment with the continued progression of the major infrastructure project, HIF1, in Didcot and the surrounding areas. Despite objections, Oxfordshire County Council has proceeded to initiate the tendering process for detailed design and early work on HIF1. This project includes four key components aimed at addressing the demands of new residential developments south of Oxford. These include constructing a dual carriageway on the A4130 east of Milton Interchange, a new road bridge over the A4130, railway line and Milton Road, a river crossing connecting Didcot to Culham, and a bypass for Clifton Hampden.
Mr. Holding argues that instead of investing in the costly HIF1 project, reopening the Wantage and Grove Parkway Station could provide a more cost-effective alternative. He estimates this reopening would cost approximately £20 million, offering significant savings for taxpayers. Additionally, he points out that traveling by train is faster and could be cheaper than travel by car.
The Wantage and Grove Station, which originally opened in 1846 under Great Western Railway, ceased train services in 1964. However, a petition advocating for its reopening has since gathered 1,500 signatures. If reopened, the station is projected to serve an estimated 2.1 million passengers annually.
Despite this enthusiasm, Mr. Holding is concerned that funding allocated for HIF1 could hinder the station’s reopening. He fears that the finances of Oxfordshire County Council and Vale of White Horse District Council might be overstretched, delaying progress further. He advocates for prioritizing investment in sustainable public transportation rather than an expensive nine-mile road. He suggests that the allocated HIF1 funds could alternatively finance the construction of 15 new rail stations in Oxfordshire, subsidize £2.50 bus fares across the UK for an entire year, or purchase over 600 electric buses.
On the other hand, the county council maintains that HIF1 will support sustainable travel, reduce congestion in villages, and enhance air quality and noise levels. Councillor Duncan Enright, cabinet member for travel and development strategy, emphasizes that the project will lead to more reliable journey times, better pedestrian and cycling connectivity, and the support of designated housing and employment areas. He underscores that this investment, which is primarily funded by central government, is expected to significantly benefit the local economy.
The HIF1 project includes 19.2 km of high-quality walking and cycling infrastructure, opportunities for faster and more direct bus routes, and improved connections between employment hubs, Didcot, and surrounding villages.
In summary, Andy Holding and the Wantage and Grove Station Supporters Group continue to advocate for the reopening of the Wantage and Grove Station, believing it to be a more efficient and economical solution. However, Oxfordshire County Council views HIF1 as a transformative project that will boost sustainable transport, reduce congestion, and promote local economic growth.
Learn how you can support or create sustainable travel options in Wantage by contributing to local initiatives. Consider exploring the business directory to connect with relevant transport and logistics services, or submit your own listing to help foster local collaboration.
