Passengers using Oxford are being advised to plan ahead at the start of February as Network Rail installs a new railway bridge beside Oxford station, part of a wider upgrade to increase capacity and improve services.

An amended timetable will run from Sunday 1 February to Sunday 8 February. Rail replacement services will operate between Didcot Parkway and Oxford, and between Banbury and Oxford/Didcot Parkway.

The Oxford station upgrade – which expands rail infrastructure and enhances the local road network – is intended to deliver a larger, improved station, additional services with East West Rail, extra future capacity including the Cowley Branch Line, and a safer, better road layout.

-- Advertisement --

Giles Clark, project director for Network Rail, said: "This is a major milestone in our work to provide more capacity and better journeys for passengers in Oxford. We know getting to this stage has been a difficult journey for passengers and local residents, and I’d like to thank them for their ongoing patience as we install the new bridge.

"If you're planning to travel via Oxford over the first week of February, please make sure to check your journey before travelling at National Rail Enquiries or with your train operator."

The station car park on Becket Street will be closed for the duration of the rail replacement services. Pedestrian access through Oxford station will be maintained during the Botley Road closure, with temporary walkways provided between platforms.