"I was pleased to host my first “Ask the GWR” event in Charlbury in February. Many of you made clear your views on the current state of rail services in letters and in meeting, especially with regard to services at Finstock Station. Being a regular commuter from Hanborough, I am fully aware of how much we rely on our rail service providers, and how important it is that these services run to time. I therefore decided that local residents should have the opportunity to speak to GWR and Network Rail directly, to raise their concerns and learn more about future plans to improve rail services on the North Cotswold Line. If you were able to attend, I do hope you found this evening informative and helpful. I hope to host similar “Ask the…” events in the future – so watch this space!
"A number of you have written to me with concerns about the recent spike in burglaries in the local area over recent months. This is of course worrying and it is essential that we are able to feel safe in our own homes. I welcomed the chance to discuss this with Local Police Area Commander for West Oxfordshire, Superintendent Mark Johns, and I want to reassure you all that Thames Valley Police are on the case and cracking down on those committing these crimes.
"As we find ourselves well into the New Year, I continue to participate fully in the discussions over primary care for Witney and the surrounding area. Work continues on our plans to improve local transport infrastructure, including campaigning for maintenance works on the B4022 through Finstock, in particular. I want to see improvements in broadband matched by improvements in mobile signals, to make it easier for local businesses to grow and thrive. I want to do all I can to support our NHS and education systems as they continue their outstanding work.
"Rest assured, these are only a few of my aims for the year ahead. If there is any issue you wish to raise with me, please do email me at robert@robertcourts.co.uk as I would greatly appreciate hearing your views."