Other

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.

Yes

ID sylw: 107683

Derbyniwyd: 26/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Shakespeare Line Rail User Group

SLRUG unequivocally supports Porterbrook’s presence at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre (LMRIC) and its acquisition of the site in 2024. We firmly endorse the recent and planned investments, along with a strong commitment to the rail industry. The site is strategically designated as a Major Investment Site in the emerging South Warwickshire Local Plan. As such, we fully support the proposed £45 million investment in the site and its significant potential for the region.

Other

ID sylw: 107684

Derbyniwyd: 26/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Shakespeare Line Rail User Group

Reinstating the Stratford-Honeybourne railway would help regenerate Stratford-upon-Avon following post-pandemic challenges. Stratford currently attracts only 6% of visitors via rail, compared to the 13% typical for similar town centres. A direct rail link with London could lead to nearly 245,000 extra visitors if these figures are applied to the current 3.5 million Stratford annual numbers. There would be further opportunities provided as Oxford would be on the route, another tourist centre. Town centre businesses have noted that the lack of appealing rail services, particularly to London, has hindered ability to thrive and draw investment.

A strong rail connection would enhance the appeal of Stratford as a destination and foster greater economic activity across various sectors, from hospitality to retail. A 2018 survey indicated 58% of residents were interested in an Oxford service. The 2021 Strategic Outline Business Case concluded the project would generate a useable Benefit/Cost Ratio above 1 and considerable user benefits from connecting to networks south of Banbury.

An extended service from Stratford to London could improve connectivity by providing a continuous journey to key destinations including Oxford, Reading and Paddington. This would also enable direct connectivity with Evesham, Worcester, the South West and South Wales. 62% of respondents said they would consider utilising a direct rail service to London. Local businesses overwhelmingly support rail reopening. 94% of over 70 surveyed businesses expressed support. The potential increase in footfall from both tourists and commuters could inject vital revenue into the local economy.

Other

ID sylw: 107685

Derbyniwyd: 26/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Shakespeare Line Rail User Group

The draft policy clearly states that “development proposals should prioritise access to public transport” and “developments should aim to minimise car dependency.” However, the current
reality starkly contrasts these objectives.

Stratford, along with the proposed major new settlement at Long Marston Garden Village, is on a trajectory that continues to favour car reliance, potentially undermining the very goals outlined in the policy. It is imperative that the South Warwickshire Local Plan (SWLP) and Local Planning Authority (LPA) and Local Transport Authority (LTA) take responsibility for reversing this trend. Without a decisive shift in transport investment—focused on enhancing public transport, particularly rail-based options, and promoting alternatives to private car use—these developments will further increase traffic congestion and create added environmental concerns.

The SWLP, the LPA and the LTA hold a crucial responsibility to adhere to their policy intentions and ensure that future developments genuinely prioritise sustainable transport solutions. The LPA and LTA are accountable for delivering fostering a community that supports public transport accessibility and reduces car dependency.

No

ID sylw: 107686

Derbyniwyd: 26/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Shakespeare Line Rail User Group

The Vale of Evesham Control Zone has clearly failed in its primary objective of managing the increase in HGV movements arising from development in the area. Instead of alleviating congestion and minimising the impact on local communities, it has merely shifted HGV traffic onto existing roadways, particularly along the A46 Trunk Road.

This policy, which ignores the potential of rail freight, is fundamentally unsustainable. Unless this policy is revised to incorporate rail freight options, it should be promptly removed from the SWLP. It's important to note that while other local authorities are moving towards this deletion, Warwickshire County Council seems to be an outlier in maintaining this ineffective policy.