Sir – £270m for East-West Rail is some “sweetener” (Report, December 1)! The Government’s decision to proceed with the project promises a major broadening of the city’s present outlook towards London and the south-east. An early start should also save money by allowing the common developments associated with Chiltern Railways’ Evergreen 3 project for a second rail link to London via Bicester, including a new station at Water Eaton Parkway, to be sized from the start for the increased traffic.

The new East-West passenger and freight trains will also put more pressure on Oxford’s existing rail station, raising more doubts that the provision of extra bay platforms, including part of the existing short-stay car park, will be adequate for the increased number of travellers.

The very high benefits claimed for E-W Rail add further to the already strong case for building a new European-style transport interchange for rail, bus and cycle travellers at the Oxpens, incorporating two island rail platforms with four faces for easy changing.

Integrated architecturally with other West End developments, the transport hub would provide a new focal point for the city to welcome its many visitors.

We must hope that the sale by the British Railways Residual Board of a key piece of land at the Oxpens will not be allowed to prevent this vision from being realised.

And, for those who are concerned about our sugar intake, maybe we might save a spoonful by not having to redesign Frideswide Square after all.

Dr Andrew M. Pritchard, North Hinksey