A £161m plan to build a fifth platform and a new entrance at Oxford station has been supported by councillors, further showcasing the need to put into actions plans being put forward by the North Cotswold Line Task Force.
Network Rail wants to build the new platform on the station’s west side and will bid for further funding from the Department for Transport (DfT).
Pending that funding, which is expected in spring 2022, the redevelopment could be completed by the end of 2024.
Oxford City Council’s planning committee approved Network Rail’s prior approval application at a meeting on Tuesday.
The redevelopment would include the new platform, a second station entrance, a ticket office and shops.
A new, wider rail bridge would also be built over Botley Road.
It would provide direct services to the east of the city on the Oxford to Milton Keynes-Bedford line.
Mike Gallop, Network Rail’s western route and strategic operations director, said: “Our plans are vital for the future development of the city, but also stretch much wider around the county and supporting economic growth across the country.”
