Oxford’s Botley Road will remain closed beyond the end of August after further works were required following the discovery of three minor gas leaks beneath the road.
Network Rail confirmed the latest delay on Wednesday 22 July, explaining that the leaks were identified during excavation work relating to drainage improvements as part of the Oxford Station upgrade project.
The organisation said the gas pipe, which is owned by Southern Gas Networks (SGN), had not been damaged by Network Rail’s works.
However, to avoid the need for future disruption and ensure the continued safety and reliability of the gas supply to homes, businesses and residents, Network Rail has agreed to accommodate SGN’s replacement works.
SGN will now replace a section of its gas network beneath Botley Road alongside the remaining railway improvement works.
The additional work is expected to take around four to six weeks, with Network Rail working with SGN to confirm a revised reopening date.
The road was originally due to reopen in August following the major Oxford Station improvement scheme, but the latest announcement means the closure will continue beyond the current target date.
Tim Walden, Network Rail Great Western Route’s capital delivery director, apologised for the continued disruption.
He said:
“We know this news will be deeply disappointing for residents, businesses and everyone who relies on Botley Road, and we’re very sorry for the continued disruption and uncertainty this will cause.”
“Our teams, across SGN and Network Rail, are working as hard as possible to complete the remaining work and minimise delays, while keeping the community informed with regular updates.”
The closure began in April 2023 as part of a £237 million project to upgrade Oxford Station and replace the railway bridge over Botley Road.
Read more: Network Rail announces updated timeline for reopening of Botley Road in Oxford
The road was initially expected to reopen after around 12 months, but has remained closed for more than three years.
Network Rail said further information on the revised reopening date will be provided once plans with SGN have been finalised.
Reporting contribution by Isabella Harris, Local Democracy Reporter (LDR) for Oxfordshire, covering local politics, council meetings and planning decisions across six councils in the county.
