Local Group Web Manager: Jane Tomlinson
Jane Tomlinson, PR manager, CPRE Oxfordshire
Our vision for the countryside
Unlike many environmental charities, CPRE has no vested interests – we own no land, rely solely on donations and grants, and are politically independent. We make decisions with the head not the heart, as much as we love the countryside, and we are possibly the only green group which has a completely holistic approach. Planning, in particular, is all about looking at the bigger picture, and our wide remit means we have to consider the whole of the country – rural and urban – when creating policy. We want to see a protected countryside, but within the context of a healthier economy and a happier community, and we don’t think they are mutually exclusive.
Make a Difference
When people join together to take positive action, amazing things can happen!
We campaign countywide on a range of subjects that affect Oxfordshire's communities. From protecting Oxford's green belt from urban sprawl to fighting against huge lorries using inappropriate roads, we're right there in the heart of the community.
CPRE Oxon campaigns to protect the countryside across Oxfordshire. To see the ways you can get involved and make a difference visit our Campaigns page.
If you're interested in joining a CPRE District Group or volunteering in another way visit our Volunteer page.
We care about waste and litter
Litter is a problem that gets people hot under the collar. In fact, MPs get more letters complaining about litter than anything else.
Waste and litter matters
Oxfordshire generates 2.2 million tonnes of waste: municipal, commercial, industrial and construction. County and District Councils are only responsible for the first of these.
What we think about wind turbines
Wind turbines can be beneficial in capturing CO2-free energy, but in a county like Oxfordshire, where winds are light and sporadic, we don’t think they’re appropriate.
What we think about minerals
Oxfordshire’s mineral wealth is in sand and gravel rather than diamonds and coal. Nevertheless, it’s a hugely valuable natural resource and brings economic benefits to communities. But this needs to be carefully managed because the impact of large-scale, long-term extraction of minerals can be profound.
Digging deeper
Oxfordshire’s sands and gravels are an enormously valuable. But extracting minerals is such a dirty business that there have to be limits and carefully made plans to minimise disruption and misery for local residents.
What we think about transport policy
We all need to get from A to B. And sometimes it feels like we're all trying to get from A to B at the same time. We think transport policy needs to be more 'joined up' and to focus on public transport - especially rail.
Rail matters
Generally we support the expansion and extension of the rail network, which with careful planning will have a huge and positive impact on Oxfordshire.
What we think about rail
We want to see a railway renaissance, with an expansion of the network, more passengers and freight. Expansion must be planned carefully to remain affordable, safeguard the countryside and tackle car dependence and rising carbon emissions.
