## Councillor Criticises Banbury Station Project
A senior councillor has voiced strong criticism of Oxfordshire County Council’s redevelopment of Banbury railway station, describing it as a “multi-million white elephant scheme.” The councillor argues the project prioritises cyclists at the expense of accessibility for elderly and disabled residents, as well as for parents with young children.
### Accessibility Concerns
According to the councillor, the new station layout disregards the daily challenges faced by vulnerable groups. The removal or reconfiguration of drop-off points and the limited parking near the entrance have raised particular concerns for those who rely on easy access.
> “This project has lost sight of practical needs. It’s designed for cyclists, not for people who actually need to get to the station,” the councillor said during a local council meeting.
### Financial and Practical Issues
Critics claim the cost of the station upgrades has spiralled far beyond initial estimates, with little evidence of significant benefit to most rail users. The councillor described the financial planning as poor and warned that public funds were being wasted on designs that fail to meet community requirements.
Officials, however, maintain that the redevelopment is part of a broader transport strategy intended to encourage sustainable travel and modernise Banbury’s infrastructure.
### Community Reaction
The scheme has become a point of contention among residents. While some appreciate efforts to improve cycling facilities and reduce congestion, others share the councillor’s frustration over the apparent lack of accessibility and value for money.
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**Author’s Summary:** A councillor denounces costly upgrades to Banbury station, arguing they neglect accessibility and overspend public funds while focusing too heavily on cycling.
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Banbury Guardian — 2025-11-28