Network Rail confirms next steps for Botley Road programme

Network Rail [1] has released an update on its Botley Road programme. The infrastructure manager said that Thames Water [2] is currently excavating several additional 'trial holes' on behalf of Kier, its principal contractor. Trial holes are a means of collecting information on the ground conditions and services below the road, and Thames Water will continue this work for the next five weeks (Monday - Friday only).

These additional trial holes are needed to allow Thames Water to confirm whether it is possible to move its water main connection point further west along Botley Road towards Osney bridge. The two previous locations identified by Kier have been rejected by Thames Water due to operational concerns that any temporary works could impact on Oxford's main water supply and sewer. Since July 2024 Network Rail has been working with both parties to try and secure agreement to identify alternative locations for the diversions of these key utilities that serve Oxford and Oxfordshire, in consultation with the bus companies and local authorities.

The current work being carried out by Thames Water will determine whether a new alternative location is possible. Following completion of the physical trial hole works, Thames Water and Kier will then require a further four weeks to validate the designs, cost, and programme to carry out the diversions. Once this information is shared with Network Rail, discussions can continue with funders around potential options for the overall scheme.

Francis McGarry, investment director Wales & Western at Network Rail, said: "We apologise for the continued disruption and are grateful for the support and patience of the community whilst we undertake these works. We want to give clarity to residents, businesses and stakeholders as soon as possible. The work currently being carried out by Thames Water is vital to helping to find a way forward for this project.

We will keep residents and the local community updated on any further developments as this work takes place. "

Download article [3]

References

^ Network Rail (www.networkrail.co.uk)
^ Thames Water (www.thameswater.co.uk)
^ Download article (news.railbusinessdaily.com)