WE are proud of our city. The central university colleges constitute one of the greatest, and most beautiful, assemblages of architecture in the land and, in normal years, ensures a steady flow of visitors – either to look at or study in these fine buildings. This brings prosperity and energy to the whole of Oxford.

The gateways to the city, however, are less impressive. In fact the railway and bus stations are nothing short of an embarrassment. So it is with great interest that we hear of plans to finally give us the railway station we deserve.

Instead of a brick shed, we may get a striking piece of modern architecture to rival, or at least compliment, the Said Business School.

Read full story: Is station plan on the right track?

We could also see the back of the shabby bridges over Botley Road and a smartening up of the surrounding area, currently an expanse of tatty and closed up shops and eateries and broken traffic signs – with just the odd thriving restaurant and barbershop. Even its greatest admirers would have to admit it's hardly a great advert for an academic world capital and tourist mecca.

Oxford Mail:

The changes are all connected with bigger rail improvement plans, such as the Cowley branch line and the much vaunted East-West rail link.

We’ve heard such talk before and there's more than a hint of déjà vu . Let’s hope that this time it becomes a reality.