Impressions released of proposed new Oxford stations
WITH proposals for the reintroduction of a passenger service on the former Cowley branch at Oxford gathering pace, artist’s impressions for two new railway stations have been produced by Network Rail. Both stations would have 220m-long platforms with shelters and seating.
Oxford South station would serve the Science Park and surrounding areas, while a second station on the branch, Oxford East, would handle passengers heading to Oxford Business Park. This latter station would also be adjacent to a supermarket and small retail park, as well as being close to the BMW Mini manufacturing plant.
At present, the Cowley branch is freight only, the traffic being completed Mini cars being moved to Southampton Docks for export.
Back in November 2014, Chiltern ran a demonstration train along the line, and the current proposals are for a half-hourly service running to London Marylebone via Bicester, operated by Chiltern.
At the time of the demonstration train, Chiltern said reopening the branch would bring significant economic benefits for many businesses south of the city centre, as well as helping to ease congestion and improve connectivity. Journey times from Oxford East to the city’s main station were estimated at nine minutes. Originally, the line ran from Oxford to Princes Risborough.
Funding from the DfT to reinstate the line is awaited, but planning consents are already in place.