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ID sylw: 107682

Derbyniwyd: 26/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Shakespeare Line Rail User Group

Safeguarding the Stratford-Honeybourne-Oxford/Worcester railway line is crucial and this aligns with the Stratford-on-Avon Core Strategy 2016 and the principles of the NPPF 2024, particularly paragraph 111(c). This aligns with local development plans and investment strategies across South and East Worcestershire, the Cotswolds, Tewkesbury, Cheltenham, and Gloucestershire (the A46 corridor).

The current policy language, particularly use of the word "inhibit" in the draft policy, is inadequate. The existing wording from the Core Strategy should be used. This advocates against any development that undermines safeguarded schemes.

The Core Strategy Inspector’s Report emphasised the importance of the southbound rail link for a long-term solution to traffic congestion. The report notes that it would provide a sustainable alternative to car travel for residents and visitors. The SWLP must not deviate from the Inspector's recommendations.

Stratford-on-Avon has declared a Climate Emergency. Policies should commit to sustainable alternatives to and mitigations for the effects of road transport. This accounts for 80% of nitrogen dioxide emissions, while rail contributes 1.6%. Stratford is strategically located between Oxford and Cheltenham but is isolated due to a lack of public transportation options. The absence of rail connectivity south of Stratford has led to high car-dependency. The draft Warwickshire Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4) emphasises the need to address commuter movements across borders and highlights the North Cotswold Line's importance for access to major rail networks. While we support increases to capacity on the North Cotswold's Line, LTP4 should also address car usage from Warwickshire residents travelling to Gloucestershire and Worcestershire to access rail transport. LTP4 should advocate for restoration of the link to address latent demand for rail travel and allow LMAGV to thrive without car-dependency and help revitalise Stratford's post-pandemic economy. It would also enhance resilience by providing a second route between Birmingham and Oxford.