Wednesday 22 Jul 2026
Network Rail provides update on status of Botley Road project
- Region & Route:
- Wales & Western: Great Western
- | Wales & Western
Network Rail has confirmed today that Botley Road in Oxford will remain closed beyond the end of August.
The reopening of Botley Road was planned for the end of August when the programme was reviewed and amended in January 2025 to prioritise the reopening of the road to traffic.
Recently, during excavation work relating to drainage for the new road, three minor gas leaks were identified on part of the gas network, owned by SGN. The pipe has not been damaged by the Network Rail work.
In the interests of safety, and to avoid disruptive and unplanned work to repair potential gas leaks in the future, Network Rail has agreed to accommodate work by gas distribution company SGN to replace a section of their network beneath Botley Road, as well as completing existing Network Rail work.
SGN’s work is essential to maintain a safe and reliable gas supply to homes, businesses and the local community. The work will likely take around four-six weeks, and Network Rail is working closely with SGN to confirm a new re-opening date for the road.
Network Rail and SGN are working collaboratively to integrate their programmes, and a further update will be provided as soon as possible.
Last week the new Southern walkway under Botley Road bridge was opened to pedestrians giving the people of Oxford a more direct route on foot to the city centre.
Tim Walden, Network Rail Great Western Route’s capital delivery director, 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.
“We expect the additional work to take around four to six weeks and are currently working on a plan so we can confirm the timings as quickly as possible.”
Notes to Editors
The pipe has not been damaged by the Network Rail work.
SGN will be replacing the old, metal pipe with a new longer-lasting plastic one. This will ensure they can avoid disruptive gas leaks in the future and continue to maintain a safe and efficient gas supply to residents, businesses, and the local community.
The next resident update session is scheduled to take place at the King’s Centre in Oxford from 1700-1800 tonight (Wednesday 22 July).
Further information can be found at www.networkrail.co.uk/OxfordshireConnect.
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