Edition #2095: Schools, Safety, and Serenity in the Cotswolds
5 February 2026
First, we delve into the heated topic of park and ride expansion with the controversial Eynsham Park delay and the housing versus parking debate in Witney. Additionally, we explore school absences, flooding, and rail disruptions impacting daily life in West Oxfordshire. Tune in for more.
🎵 Opening Theme
Eynsham Park & Ride Opening Delayed
Oxfordshire council criticized over £51m idle park and ride site; Conservative leader Liam Walker blames Liberal Democrats’ political choices; Construction of access road awaits planning approval, operational target next year
Car Park May Become a Site for Housing
70 affordable homes planned for Woodford Way car park in Witney; Councillor Lydia Arkishevska backs the plan which has sparked debate; Petition against the proposal gains over 3200 signatures
600 New Homes near Railway Station
600 new homes planned near Hambra rail station; development met with concern over infrastructure strain and potential flooding; councilors urge careful consideration, opposing large-scale development without proper infrastructure improvements and protections for ancient woods.
Buttercross Lane Flooding Traps Residents
Witney hit by severe flooding due to Storm Chandra; Buttercross Lane residents stranded as water levels rise; Local councils investigating long-term solutions
Rail Disruption at Botley Road Bridge
Major bridge work causes rail disruption in West Oxfordshire this week, with replacement buses between Didcot Parkway, Banbury, and Oxford. New polystyrene walkways will be installed quickly during the closure.
Oxfordshire Sees Record School Absences
School absences have sharply risen in Oxfordshire, with record fines issued for unauthorised term time holidays. Parents have been warned to follow school rules.
Firefighters’ Busy Week
Firefighters at Woodstock Fire Station had a busy week, handling emergencies despite threats of station closure; Safety training was hindered by weather and another incident, while a trainee earned breathing apparatus accreditation.
Fire Service Evacuates Boots
A fluorescent light strip at Boots caused a fire drill involving Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, which was quickly extinguished upon arrival. No injuries were reported and the store reopened shortly afterwards.
Churchill Appears for Strangulation Charges
The Duke of Marlborough accused of strangling estranged wife; Set to appear in court this week; He faces three intentional strangulation charges.
Man Arrested on Suspicion of HGV Raid
A man was arrested on suspicion of stealing from a lorry in Oxfordshire; Thames Valley Police’s Rural Crime Task Force apprehended him; The force also addressed livestock worrying during the same patrol.
Council Tax Rise to Help Fund Bigger Police Force
Council tax to rise to fund expanded police force. Thames Valley Police to see £15 annual increase for Band D homes. Funding shortfall of £9000000 prompts rise.
Cotswolds among “Most Romantic”
The Cotswolds deemed romantic; Valentine’s Day weekend search surges by 5000%, beating peak district and Snowdonia. Instagram hashtags highlight enduring appeal.
Reflection with Richard Bowler
This reflection muses on Winter Olympics athletes’ dedication and endurance, likening it to Christians’ perseverance, and the rewards of keeping faith despite challenges.
Editor’s Choice - The Crofts Back In Time
Road conditions in Edwardian Witney are decried in a 1905 letter; Poor living conditions and children missing school due to muddy roads; Concerned MP pushes for road improvements
🕯 Deaths
Local death announcements and our condolences to those affected.
❓ Quiz
This week’s quiz questions, plus the answers to last week’s quiz.
Carp Catch Smashes Records
Angler snags record-breaking carp, largest ever caught at Linear Fisheries. The fish weighed over 50 pounds, more than double the previous record. The catch made headlines after Ian Russell, a renowned angler, hauled it in after three decades of fishing at the lake.
Five Pubs Saved, as Rescue Deal Announced
“Five Oxfordshire pubs saved; rescuers buy 5, with no others closing locally,” says pub operator administration’s administrator.
£22k Raised for Mental Health
Public generosity raises record-breaking £22,000 for mental health support in Oxfordshire. The funds will support crisis services and community hubs. Over 20,000 people benefited annually.
Oxford Bus Group Confirmed £3 Cap
Oxford Bus Group extends £3 fare cap until 2026. Most fares already under cap. Group adds 13 new electric buses.
Blood Pressure Care Helps Brain Health
Better blood pressure management after pregnancy may improve long-term brain health, according to an Oxford study. Women who received remote medical support for hypertension during pregnancy had higher brain white matter volumes nine months postpartum. This marker suggests potential resilience against future brain decline.
Helping People with Disabilities
Oxford Council partners with My Life, My Choice to empower those with learning disabilities in decision-making; Deal aims to give lived experience direct influence on services and opportunities; Project aligns with Oxfordshire learning disability plan until 2035.
Aldi Giving £100 to New Parents
Oxfordshire new parents receive free £100 Aldi vouchers weekly in 2026 for baby essentials. Scheme, Mamia New Parent Fund, supports 400 families annually. Apply via Aldi.co.uk with Mamia receipt.
📌 Noticeboard
Local notices and community announcements.
👋 Goodbye!
The closing sign-off, including volunteer credits and listener information.
🎵 Closing Theme
📻 Radio Listings
This week’s radio programme highlights provided by TNF Soundings.
📺 TV Listings
This week’s audio described TV programme highlights provided by TNF Soundings.