Waste of time

The Network Rail representatives were only there to put their views forward, they had no authority and they ignored almost all the points raised.

The only fact that we got was that the A338 bridge closure would not be in February.

There was much concern about the effect the closure would have on adjacent villages such as the Hanneys, and how bus users would be catered for if the buses were routed via Rowstock.

There were comments about the Denchworth Road bridge, and it was obvious that neither the Network Rail people, nor the county council representative, had ever driven along that road.

Points were raised about the catastrophic effect of the A338 closure. My suggestion that there would be no problems if Network Rail put in a bailey bridge to allow the A338 to traffic to flow unhindered was ignored by the representatives. The impression I got was that speakers just wished we would shut up and go away.

Another speaker suggested everyone should write to Wantage MP Ed Vaizey, reminding him we are all voters.

Another speaker asked if Network Rail was planning 24-hour working, seven days a week until completion? The response clearly showed that Network Rail were only interested in keeping the trains running, and they had no concern for the local difficulties.

Everyone wanted another meeting with full plans available for discussion. We would expect Network Rail to be represented by senior management who could answer questions and, hopefully, take decisions.

Francis Sketch, Easterfield, Grove