Last week’s announcement of £500 million investment in the Oxford – Cambridge corridor, including the re-opening of the Cowley branch line, has won favour with members of our Editorial Board.
Our board members were unanimous in their support for the investment in the region, which many see as a vital boost to the science & technology sector.
Emily Slupek, director and head of project management for Savills in Oxford, said: “Re-opening the Cowley branch line, alongside the forthcoming East-West Rail connection between Bedford and Oxford, will further enhance Oxford’s appeal and influence as a UK growth hub.
“This new link will improve connectivity to and between Oxford and Cambridge, giving investors in both locations greater confidence, opening up broader accommodation options for current and future employees, extending access to under-served communities, and supporting sustainable transport for a wider population.
“It’s a welcome development for Oxford’s science and innovation ecosystem and comes as part of a broader momentum that includes recent commitments to upgrade the power network and wastewater capacity, all helping to push for further growth in the region.”
Simon Ruck, managing director for Oxford North, said: “The £500m investment into the Oxford-Cambridge corridor is fantastic news. Bringing together two of the world’s best universities and most intensive innovation clusters can only strengthen Oxford North’s position as a global innovation district. This infrastructure will unlock growth, attract world-class talent, and ensure the UK remains at the forefront of global innovation.
“The re-opening of the Cowley branch line will be transformational for Oxford and Oxfordshire. Enhanced multi-modal connectivity and sustainable transport links will support the region’s net-zero ambitions whilst driving employment opportunities and improved accessibility for local residents across the Oxford innovation ecosystem.
“Oxford North’s proximity to Oxford Parkway means we’re ideally positioned to benefit from these enhanced rail connections across the corridor.”
Philip Waddy, consultant for WWA Studios, said: “The extension and eventual completion of East West Rail is key to unlocking the potential of the Ox-Cam corridor especially given the lack of an efficient road link between these two great cities.
“It’s refreshing to see Government supporting the potential for growth in our region which contrasts with the failure to drive the initiative forward by the previous Government. The opening of the Cowley branch line to passengers will not only be a boost to the corridor but offers another convenient route for residents and visitors to access the city centre from South Oxford.”
Laura Ludlow, partner for Mills & Reeve, said: “The £500m investment announcement is excellent news for our clients in Oxford, Cambridge and across the growth corridor. Connectivity is fundamental for Oxford to maximise its growth potential. Easy rail links between the science & technology centres, the city and beyond to Cambridge and London will help attract talent and foster community and collaboration.
“The investment signals a major boost for Oxford’s innovation ecosystem and it is exciting to see the momentum building across the corridor.”
Speaking on the £500m investment, Danielle Simpson, sales director for Pye Homes, said: “The announcement of this huge investment in a science supercluster can only be good news for the region. World-class innovation creates demand for world-class places to live. As housebuilders, we have a vital role to play in creating communities that nurture talent, creativity and a sense of belonging.”
On the Cowley branch line re-opening, she said: “Sustainability lies at the heart of everything we do, so we welcome any initiative which promotes reduced car dependence through rail connectivity. This is not just a transport upgrade; it is an opportunity to create integrated low-carbon neighbourhoods.”
Sharyn Scott, director for Tees Law, said: “The Government’s £500m investment in the Oxford to Cambridge corridor marks a major step towards unlocking the region’s potential as Europe’s ‘Silicon Valley’. The announcement signals a strong focus on connectivity, innovation, inclusivity and growth.
“While details on how the funding will be allocated remain unclear, it is expected to support long-term commercial development, inclusive placemaking, and infrastructure.
“The key now is clarity and pace – turning ambition into delivery. This investment creates real opportunities for collaboration between public and private sectors, strengthening communities and driving sustainable prosperity.
“At Tees, we welcome this confidence in the region’s future – and stand ready to help clients make the most of the opportunities it will bring.”
Jim Stretton, managing director for ARC, said: “The Government’s funding for the Cowley Branch Line is a major step forward for Oxford.
“A new station at ARC Oxford will help our members attract world-class talent and grow their businesses, while strengthening connections between local communities, companies and research hubs.
“This decision will support the continued growth of our thriving campus and help ensure Oxford remains a global leader in science and technology.”
Tees Law partner Sarah Coates takes a deeper dive into the £500m investment and adds a note of caution.
Images:
Top: Chensiyuan, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Bottom: Sidharth Bhatia on Unsplash
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