South Oxfordshire District Council

The following motion was passed unanimously by SODC full council:

“South Oxfordshire District Council recognises the need to address structural difficulties affecting the Whitchurch Toll Bridge. However we are very concerned that local people should not be penalised by payment of excessive charges and therefore call on the Secretary of State for Transport to agree to a public inquiry in order that funding of any works is transparent, fair and takes into account the long term needs of the community”.

They also issued a press release:

Council calls for public inquiry into Whitchurch Toll Bridge repair costs

South Oxfordshire District Council last night agreed to call on the Secretary of State for Transport to agree to a public inquiry into the Whitchurch Toll Bridge repair costs, and proposed toll increases.The motion put forward by the local ward member, Pearl Slatter follows the announcement by the Whitchurch Bridge Company that it has applied to the Secretary of State for permission to increase its toll charges to cover the cost of bridge repairs.The company is proposing to increase the toll for cars from 20p to 40p.

The motion received overwhelming/unanimous support from councillors.

Following the meeting, Councillor Pearl Slatter, said: “I’m obviously delighted with the council’s decision to back my motion. There is a great deal of concern in the community over the proposed toll increases, but it’s a small voice in a large region so the council’s support, along with that already received from local MPs will make a big difference in getting our voice heard. We don’t doubt there’s a need to address the structural difficulties affecting the Whitchurch Toll Bridge but are deeply concerned that local people are being penalised through excessive charges. A public inquiry would ensure that the costs of any works is transparent, fair and takes into account the long term needs of the community.”

Ann Ducker, Leader of the Council, added: “This is a great example of the council actively demonstrating its community leadership role by using its powers of influence to lobby government over issues that really matter to local people, which may not otherwise get the consideration they deserve. All we can do now is hope that the Secretary of State agrees that a public inquiry is the best way forward for everyone concerned.”