Statement on the Botley Road walkway, from the Leader of the Council:

Published Thursday 14 August 2025

Cllr Bethia Thomas, Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “Like other residents and businesses west of the railway bridge, I’m extremely disappointed with the announcement that the new walkway on the Botley Road is near completion – having seen the new map from National Rail showing the route the walkway will take. What we will see at the end of the month will still be a temporary arrangement, much longer than before, which will continue to make journeys into the city more convoluted and time-consuming – particularly for those who find getting around on foot more difficult.

“I would like the public to know what to expect from the next stage of development, and these poor communications contribute to residents’ frustration, thanks to bad project management and continued delays.

“I intend to write to National Rail to raise my concerns about the poor levels of communication and ask that they release further details of the new temporary walkway before it opens.”