Have your say on plans to create new walking and cycling routes into Oxford
Residents are being asked for their views on plans for six new walking and cycling routes into Oxford from towns and villages within an eight mile (13km) radius.
The proposal to create a series of ‘greenways’ – high-quality paths in urban or natural areas prioritised for pedestrians and cyclists – comes from a joint project being developed by Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council and the University of Oxford.
The aim is to create a network of safe, convenient and well-connected cycling and walking routes linking surrounding towns, villages and future economic development sites with Oxford city centre and other key employment, cultural and economic locations.
Councillor Judy Roberts, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Development Strategy, said: “Many people who want to walk or cycle more, for their health, wellbeing or to save money, are often put off by having to share the space with motor vehicles. Some of our towns and villages have no safe options at all, despite their close proximity to Oxford.
“That’s why the Oxford greenways project is so important. I would urge as many people as possible to take part in the consultation so that we can prioritise and design routes where they will make the biggest difference.”
The consultation runs until Tuesday 18 March. To take part, visit Let’s talk Oxfordshire.
Councillor Louise Upton, Oxford City Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Cycling Champion, said: “In order to encourage more people to walk and cycle into Oxford for work, studying, entertainment or shopping, we need to provide them with safer and more accessible routes.
“This engagement is a chance for pedestrians and cyclists to share their feedback on six proposed greenways. These new routes are designed to promote healthier and safer options as people travel across Oxford and Oxfordshire.
“I encourage everyone interested in cycling to participate – whether you're an experienced cyclist or someone who wants to start cycling.”
A first set of greenways is proposed to connect Oxford with areas including Woodstock, Otmoor, Wootton near Abingdon, Kingston Bagpuize, Kennington, Botley and Wytham.
David Prout, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Planning & Resources) at Oxford University, said: “Safe walking and cycling routes between Oxford and its surrounding towns and villages would be a massive boost for everyone living and working in Oxford. We are very pleased to have been part of this study and hope its recommendations will be implemented.”
The Oxford greenways project began in 2020 but was put on hold due to the pandemic. Feedback from the latest consultation and other engagement events will help inform the development of a delivery plan.
Initial funding is in place for design of the first set of greenways. However, route construction and further design development of the proposed network – which could improve links to around 60 towns and villages – would require successful funding bids and grant allocations.
Greenways schemes will be developed alongside other improvements to cycle routes around the county, including National Cycling Network routes, Oxfordshire’s Strategic Active Travel Network, and area and corridor travel plans within the Local Transport and Connectivity Plan.
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