New “greenways” plan aims to create a safe walking & cycling network connecting Oxford to surrounding towns & villages.
They want a network that is easy and safe. It will connect towns to Oxford, and villages within eight miles will connect, too. People can reach jobs, culture, and shops with ease.
Right now, they suggest paths towards places like Woodstock and Otmoor. Wootton and Kingston Bagpuize are others being considered. Kennington, Botley, and Wytham could also connect to the greenways network.
A council member, Judy Roberts, spoke about the impact of cars. She said that cars discourage walking and cycling, noting that some towns have zero safe options. This makes the greenways project crucial for encouraging alternative transportation.
Judy urges people to share their thoughts and provide feedback. They want to know where routes matter most to the community. An online survey is open until March 18, and you should participate to share your insights.
Louise Upton supports the project wholeheartedly. She says safer routes get more people walking and cycling regularly. This can improve people’s access to work, studies, and shops, she adds, expressing excitement to gather pedestrian and cyclist feedback on the proposed routes.
David Prout at Oxford University is also happy about the project. He believes that safe routes help everyone living and working nearby. He hopes they are able to build the proposed routes in the near future.
They currently have money to design the first routes. However, they need more money to actually build them. To secure the necessary funding, they will actively apply for grants and bids.