An Oxford MP is set to meet the transport secretary to discuss delays in work to upgrade the city’s train station.

Layla Moran raised the issue long delays to £161m Network Rail projectwhich has seen Botley Road closed since April 2023, in Parliament on Tuesday.

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said the situation was not “good enough” and agreed to his request for a meeting.

Network Rail described the project as “incredibly complex” and said it was “taking the time to get it right”.

Ms Moran, Liberal Democrat MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, said she planned to attend a meeting of businesses affected by the works later in the week.

His office said companies had reported a drop in revenue of up to 60% and many were “deeply concerned” about how the closure would affect trade over Christmas.

Ms Moran said Network Rail’s motto appeared to be “move slowly and break things” and that it had “mismanaged” the station upgrade.

She said she had already written to the Minister for Transport, Lord Hendywho had agreed to meet her, but who “now seems too busy”.

Ms Haigh said she recognized that “the situation in Oxford is not good enough”.

She said she agreed with Ms Moran’s characterization of Network Rail and said it was “part of the reason” why it was being abolished.

“I will of course meet with her to discuss how we can improve the situation,” Ms Haigh said.

Speaking afterwards, Ms Moran said she looked forward to finding “an acceptable way forward”.

“Network Rail demonstrated completely chaotic project management from start to finish, and residents have lost all confidence in themselves to deliver this project,” she added.

In a previous statement, a Network Rail spokesperson said: “We are working with the Department for Transport and partner local authorities to undertake a full review of the scheme and will provide an update on timelines for the next stages of the project .

“This is an incredibly complex project, involving multiple organizations. While we know everyone wants clarity, we are taking the time to get it right.”