Osney Bridge Repair Works - Update
"As you may remember, the water main was damaged beyond repair after being struck by a third party, and such is the strategic importance of the water main we couldn't supply customers via another part of our network. This resulted in us having to divert the damaged water main via an above ground temporary water piple in the east bound cycle lane of Onsey bridge in order to maintain customers supplies.
Following a number of complex site investigations and extensive negotiations with the key stakeholders invovled in the project, including Oxfordshire County Council, the Environment Agency, and Network Rail, we have finally agreed on a way forward including when the works shall take place.
In addition to the replacement of the damaged water main, we are working in partnership with Oxfordshrie County Council to address the urgent repair and strengthening of the northern footpath structure of Osney Bridge.
When does the work start?
In February 2024 we plan to start the works to move the temporary pipe from the east bound cycle lane of Osney Bridge and a new pipeline route will be established across a temporary scaffold bridge over the river Thames. This will remain in place until the pope and bridge repairs are complete, hopefully around Spring 2025.
How will I be affected?
From March 2024 - March 2025 we'll need to close the following on the city bound Northside of the bridge.
- Pedestrian footpath
- Cycle lane
- Carrigeway
- The Thames towpath access to Osney Bridge with a diversion via the alleyway to Abbey Road
- Closure of the River Thames for March 2024 and between Nov 2024 - March 2025. These dates are subject to relevant planning approvals and ecological surveys being completed. (We will endeavour to improve on these dates wherever possible).
As part of the lane closure, we intend to implement an intelligent temporary traffic light system to try and improve the traffic flow along Botley Road throughout the project. This decision stemps from the traffic congestion challenges encountered during the emergency works to install the temporary water pipleine in the eastbound cycle lane of Osney Bridge when the water main was damaged.
These closures are essential to enable the necessary pipe replacement and structural repairs and enhancements required to strengthen the bridge's northern footpath.
Thank you for your patience while we work to make things better.
We're very aware how disruptive these lane closures have and continue to be for local residents and bridge users and are grateful for your continued understanding.
The project's extended timeline is primarily due to the complex nature of the works and the challenges associated with closing the river Thames and maintaining vehicular access over the bridge. We are also limited by the Environment Agency which only permits the closure of the River Thames between Novemeber 1st and march 31st each year.
We are in continuous contact with the relevant authorities, including Oxfordshire County Council, the Highways Authority, the Environment Agency, and Network Rail who are currently undertaking work to expand Oxford Railway Station.
Further information can be found by visiting our dedicated webpage below:
https://www.thameswater.co.uk/about-us/investing-in-our-region/improvements-in-your-area/osney-bridge-trunk-main-replacement"