Preparation work is about to begin on one of Oxford’s most significant active travel projects, with temporary footpath closures being introduced ahead of construction of the new Oxpens River Bridge.
The bridge will create a new crossing over the River Thames between Oxpens and Grandpont, providing a dedicated route for pedestrians and cyclists and improving connections between communities to the south and west of Oxford and the city centre.
To allow construction to take place safely, Oxford City Council will temporarily close the footpath through Oxpens Meadow from Wednesday 29 July, followed by the footpath through Grandpont Nature Park on or shortly after Monday 03 August.
The closures include the route between the Gasworks Rail Bridge and the end of Whitehouse Lane, which will be used as the main construction access point for the project.
Alternative walking and cycling routes will remain available through Grandpont Nature Park, with the council confirming these will be monitored and maintained throughout the works. The recently opened southern footpath beneath Botley Road bridge will also provide an additional route into and out of the city centre.
Both footpaths are expected to reopen in spring 2027, when the Oxpens River Bridge is also scheduled for completion.
The council acknowledged that the affected routes have become increasingly important during the prolonged Botley Road closure but said delaying the work until after Botley Road fully reopens would postpone delivery of the bridge, extend disruption at Oxpens Meadow and increase the risk of construction taking place during the flood season.
Councillor Anna Railton, Deputy Leader, and Cabinet Member for Planning and Zero Carbon Oxford, said:
“This is an important next step in the journey of Oxpens River Bridge and creating a sustainable transport network in Oxford.
“We appreciate that these two footpaths are currently used as an alternative during the closure of Botley Road, and this will cause some further inconvenience to users.
“However, it is important that we stick to the timetable of this vital project for Oxford. We appreciate the patience of local residents during this stage, and encourage them to make themselves familiar with the two alternative routes that are available.”
The Oxpens River Bridge forms a key part of the wider Oxford West End regeneration programme, which aims to improve walking and cycling infrastructure while supporting the development of a more accessible and sustainable district.
Once complete, the bridge is expected to encourage more journeys on foot and by bike, helping to reduce congestion and carbon emissions across the city.
