Radar need only be manned for scheduled IFR movements if that is what Oxford want to do... meaning the number of radar controllers is more than enough.
Anotherthing.
Total and utter nonsense.
This isn't the hotel industry where split shifts are the norm.
If a radar service is notified as available in the UKAIP, then it's available to all operators who wish to participate subject to coverage and unit constraints.
Thank God that the UK ATC service isn't run by you.
Thanks for the info' re SSR Smithy.
It's great that SSR will be available, makes life much easier for all, but the annual cost makes the reason for going for LARS asap all the more sensible.
The SSR will cost about £35k per year, LARS on a 0800 - 1900, 7 day a week basis will bring in around £90k per year, but convincing those who make such decisions in the CAA and DAP is no easy task.
It isn't going to be an easy ride.