Train services through Oxford are operating as normal this morning following the successful completion of works to replace the Botley Rail Bridge. This comes as part of the latest phase of the Oxfordshire Connect Programme.

The closure, lasting eight days, enabled engineers to safely demolish the original bridge, install spans, and carry out essential preparatory work before installing the new structure. The project remains on track to reopen Botley Road by August 2026.

The temporary pedestrian diversion through Oxford station has now been removed, with the usual route beneath the bridge now reopened to the public. Rail services between Oxford and Didcot Parkway have also returned to normal following a period of replacement bus services during the closure.

The bridge replacement marks a milestone in the Oxfordshire Connect programme, which aims to deliver an improved experience travelling in the area. Goals include; a larger and improved Oxford Station, more services with East West Rail, additional rail capacity – including future use of the Crowley Branch Line -, and an improved road layout for all users.

During the closure, volunteers were on hand to support passengers and local residents using diverted routes.

“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.“

Giles Clark, Principal Programme Sponsor at Network Rail.

More information on the closure can be found on our site, Oxfordshire Connect programme information can be found directly through Network Rail.