Cogges decision has delayed solution of traffic problems

Sir – In response to Tim Walker (Witney Gazette Letters, October 10) I have to admit I’m frustrated, as the Cogges Link Road inquiry inspector’s decision has delayed a solution to the traffic issues in Witney by several years.

I have to point out that the Shores Green option is not ‘shovel-ready’ and needs to go through the proper and correct procedures, including the issue of land ownership.

It will be no surprise to readers that the county council will be wary of any scheme that involves a compulsory purchase order.

There is an impact on the emerging Local Development Framework for West Oxfordshire.

Since the decision in June I have been working closely with them to ensure that any new development plans have the necessary infrastructure in place.

Ian Hudspeth, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, County Hall, New Road, Oxford

Comments(1)

Fred Chilvers says...
9:12am Thu 25 Oct 12

Mr Hudspeth says that OCC will be wary of any scheme that involves a compulsory purchase order. What nonsense!

A CPO for the small plot required for SGSR should hold no fears because SGSR has already been identified as the only viable alternative - indeed, the officially designated superior alternative to CLR.

The likelihood is that the landowner would come to a voluntary agreement with OCC and avoid the cost of resisting a CPO that he would almost
certainly lose.

The people of Witney deserve better OCC leadership than what Mr Hudspeth offers.

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