Lottery Grant Fuels Transport Boost in West Oxfordshire
West Oxfordshire Community Transport (WOCT) has received a significant boost with the acquisition of two state-of-the-art buses, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund. These new additions, worth over £120,000, are set to enhance travel options for residents across West Oxfordshire.
WOCT, a community-owned cooperative founded in 2017, operates seven essential bus routes. These routes connect key areas of Witney, Carterton, and several rural villages, providing vital transport links for locals. The new 15-seater buses feature low floors for easy access and wheelchair accommodations, a first in Oxfordshire’s public transport.
The arrival of the new buses was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Witney’s Market Square, officiated by Mayor Owen Collins. This marks a significant milestone for WOCT in its mission to improve accessibility and convenience for its passengers.
WOCT Chair Mike Parker expressed his gratitude, highlighting the importance of these buses in connecting residents to essential services and social opportunities. "These buses are a game-changer for many in our community, especially for those who rely on public transport to reach shopping centers, medical appointments, educational institutions, and social gatherings," he said.
Local residents have already started to feel the benefits. Annette Ireland from Witney described the 215 bus as a lifeline, essential for her daily travel needs. Pensioner Pam Hall praised the ease of access provided by the new low-floor buses, while Fred Barrett from Park Road noted the friendly and supportive nature of the drivers.
WOCT’s service network includes the 210 route linking the Wychwood villages, Leafield, and Crawley with Witney. The Witney Town Services 213, 214, and 215 connect outlying areas with the town center, while the Carterton Connector 345/355 services cover the northern and southern outskirts of Carterton. The 216 Shopper Service runs twice a week, providing a direct link from Riverside Gardens to local supermarkets.
This development follows Oxfordshire County Council's allocation of £1.2 million in November 2023 to support new bus services, addressing the needs of communities that have been without regular public transport since 2016.