5 August 2026

Osney Bridge Repair, Botley Road, Oxford.

Dear Ms Moran

Thank you for contacting us on 24 July 2026 regarding the Osney Bridge trunk main replacement project.

I am sorry to learn that the reopening of Botley Road has been delayed further, due to the gas works required by SGN. I fully appreciate the frustration this must be causing residents, businesses and road users, particularly given the significant disruption and inconvenience they have experienced over several years.

We also recognise the concerns raised by residents regarding changes to the anticipated completion dates and the uncertainty surrounding when affected routes will fully reopen. We understand how important clear and reliable timescales are for those living, working and travelling in the area, and appreciate the impact that ongoing delays can have on local communities.

Update

Following confirmation from Network Rail that the reopening of Botley Road has been delayed until 20 September, Thames Water continues to target completion of our traffic-affecting works by the end of August. We remain in regular contact with Oxfordshire County Council and provide weekly progress updates on the scheme. A recent site meeting between Thames Water, Oxfordshire County Council and Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks confirmed that the current lane closure has been approved until 10 September, should additional time be required.

In terms of access arrangements:

•           Vehicle access (eastbound traffic lane on Osney Bridge): Thames Water is currently working towards reopening the lane by the end of August, subject to the successful completion of the remaining works.

•           Northern footpath and Thames towpath: These routes must remain closed until the water main replacement works and associated temporary structures have been removed. Based on the current programme, both are forecast to reopen by mid-October, subject to the successful completion of preceding activities. This approach will avoid the need for further intermittent closures and ensure the route can reopen safely. They are currently forecast to reopen by mid-October, subject to the successful completion of all preceding activities.

•           Cyclists and pedestrians: Current signed diversion routes will remain in place until the northern footpath can be reopened safely.

We recognise the disruption these works have caused and are continuing to explore opportunities to accelerate the programme, including weekend working, extended hours, and night shifts where appropriate.