The Order, made under the Transport and Works Act 1992, enables Network Rail to acquire the necessary land and rights to improve and upgrade Oxford rail station, by creation of a new western entrance building, new track and platforms, new railway bridges, and highway improvements. The project will improve capacity and capability in the ‘Oxford corridor’, a key section of the rail network in the region, including by enabling an additional three passenger trains per hour into Oxford, facilitating the introduction of East West Rail and improving connectivity to Banbury, Birmingham and throughout the Oxford-Cambridge Arc. The project will also improve the user experience in and around the station. The estimated scheme cost is £161m.

The proposed order was the subject of a public inquiry in December 2021 at which outstanding objections were considered. The Inspector found a compelling case in support of the scheme by reason of the significant economic, social and environmental benefits arising, and the Secretary of State agreed.

A copy of the decision letter and Inspector’s report can be found here.

Hugh Flanagan appeared for the promoter, Network Rail, instructed by Michele Vas of Dentons.