Eynsham,
17
June
2019
|
14:01
Europe/London

Eynsham park and ride and A40 bus lane planning application submission

Consultants acting on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council have submitted a planning application for a proposed park & ride site, located on the A40 north-west of Eynsham.

The application also includes an eastbound bus lane from the park and ride site to Duke’s Cut canal bridge near Wolvercote, and two sections of westbound bus lane on the approaches to Cassington traffic signals and Eynsham roundabout.

Other supporting infrastructure includes new bus stops on the A40 at Eynsham and Cassington, junction and crossing improvements, as well as widening of the shared walking/cycling path north of the A40 whilst retaining the existing footpath to the south.

The scheme comprises the first component of the wider A40 corridor strategy, with the park and ride with bus lanes element of the strategy specifically designed to improve the reliability, frequency and journey times of public transport using the route.

Overall, the scheme aims:

· To support jobs and housing growth and economic vitality;

· To reduce transport emissions and meet our obligations to Government;

· To protect, and where possible enhance Oxfordshire’s environment and improve quality of life; and

· To improve public health, air quality, safety and individual wellbeing.

Since the public consultation and exhibitions undertaken in late 2018 to early 2019, the scheme design has been further developed in response to the comments received.

This planning application further informs Oxfordshire’s residents and stakeholders on the final design and ensures that all relevant planning requirements are satisfactorily met.

The formal advertisement for the application was published on 13th June 2019, with the planning submission available for viewing and comment on Oxfordshire County Council’s planning portal from 10th June to 15th July 2019.

Councillor Yvonne Constance, Cabinet member for Environment, said: "We are moving a step closer towards a major improvement by giving people more travel options. A new Park and Ride, a new bus lane and better walking and cycling paths are consistent with what people tell us is needed to address congestion on the A40, will help us cut emissions by reducing the use of private cars.”

This scheme is largely funded by the Local Growth Fund, assessed and awarded by Department of Transport. In parallel with the planning application, an outline business case will shortly be submitted for their consideration. A full business case will be submitted following planning approval and scheme construction is expected to begin in Spring 2020.