Council Seeks Government Funding to Replace Kennington Rail Bridge

Oxfordshire County Council is working to secure government funding to help replace the ageing Kennington rail bridge, a key part of the A423 Southern Bypass used by around 50,000 vehicles each day.

The council has written to the Chancellor and the Secretary of State for Transport requesting financial support from the Department for Transport’s new £1 billion Structures Fund to close a £71 million funding gap in the £180 million project. The remaining costs are being met by the council and the Environment Agency.

The project aims to replace the 1965-built bridge, which has suffered age-related deterioration, while also improving walking and cycling routes, creating a new eastbound bus and park and ride lane, and enhancing flood protection for local homes and transport links.

Councillor Judy Roberts, Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action, said: “This project is essential for the future of our local road network, and it also works with the Environment Agency’s Oxford flood alleviation scheme, providing more capacity for flood water and protecting homes, businesses and crucial transport links.”

Planning permission for the scheme was granted in October 2024, with detailed design work and surveys now nearing completion. Construction will be carried out one side at a time to maintain access throughout the works.

The cost increase since the original estimate is due to inflation, complex engineering requirements, and utility diversions, including a two-stage Thames Water pipe diversion.

The Kennington improvements are closely linked to the Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme, which aims to reduce flood risk across Oxford and keep key transport routes open during future flood events.