Trains are running through Oxford as normal this morning after Network Rail successfully completed the latest phase of the Oxfordshire Connect programme with the replacement of the Botley Road rail bridge.
The eight-day closure enabled engineers to safely demolish the old structure, install new bridge spans and carry out essential preparatory works that keep the project on track for the full reopening of Botley Road in August 2026.
The temporary walkway diversion through Oxford station has now closed, with the usual route under the bridge reopened for public use. Railway lines between Oxford and Didcot Parkway have also returned to normal operation, following a period of replacement bus services while southbound trains were paused.
Throughout the closure, dozens of volunteers came together to support passengers and local residents navigating the diversion routes, helping people get from A to B safely and efficiently.
Network Rail and construction partner, Kier, have thanked the community for its patience and cooperation during this intensive period of work, as well as the volunteers and station teams who provided 24/7 support, signage and assistance throughout the diversion.
The bridge replacement is a key milestone in the wider Oxfordshire Connect programme, which will deliver:
- A bigger, better Oxford station
- More services with East West Rail
- Additional rail capacity, including future use of the Cowley Branch Line
- An improved and safer road layout for all users
These upgrades will support long term growth in the region, improve reliability for passengers and create a more resilient transport network.
Giles Clark, Principal Programme Sponsor at Network Rail, said:
“Completing this phase of work on schedule is a significant milestone for the Oxfordshire Connect programme, and I’m grateful to everyone who played a part in making it happen.
“These improvements are essential to keeping passengers moving safely and reliably, and they lay the groundwork for the major upgrades still to come.
“I’d like to thank local residents, businesses and passengers for their patience while we carried out this complex work, and I’m pleased that the walkway diversion and railway lines are now fully open again.
“We remain firmly on track for our next major milestone, reopening Botley Road in August 2026.”
Further information can be found at www.networkrail.co.uk/OxfordshireConnect.
Image credit: Network Rail
