Robert has led a debate in Parliament on A40 Congestion in West Oxfordshire.
Setting out the negative impact congestion between Witney and Oxford has on West Oxfordshire, Robert emphasised the misery delays cause commuters on a daily basis and stated that logjams on the road “shackle” local businesses. He explained how A40 congestion has, for many decades, been one of the biggest challenges facing West Oxfordshire and stressed his determination to get a grip on the issue.
Robert drew attention to the various central government funding streams which present the opportunity for investment in A40 improvements. These include the Local Growth Fund, the Housing Infrastructure Fund, and the Major Road Network.
Again highlighting his efforts to build a “truly integrated transport network” in West Oxfordshire, Robert noted that upgrades to West Oxfordshire’s railways – including full re-doubling of the Cotswold Line and the re-opening of the Cowley Branch Line with a shuttle service to Hanborough – has an important role to play in tackling A40 congestion.
Robert was joined in the Chamber by neighbouring MPs Victoria Prentis (Banbury), Alex Chalk (Cheltenham) and Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown (the Cotswolds), who highlighted the impact A40 congestion has on their constituencies.
Speaking after the debate, Robert said: “I was pleased to lead a debate on one of the most pressing issues facing West Oxfordshire and to raise the matter directly with the Government.”
“I stressed to the Minister that this is not just a matter of minor inconvenience for us, it’s something that is a blight on the lives of commuters and a millstone around the neck of our businesses.
“We are moving in the right direction - with options for funding from a number of central government funds - but there is still much work to do if we are to deliver the improvements needed. It’s vital that we continue to work towards a final fix for the A40.”
You can read Robert's full speech, and the Minister's response, here: https://tinyurl.com/y94la9eu
