Controversial bridge construction takes step forward

Work on long-standing plans for a controversial river bridge is expected to start in spring, after a new contractor was appointed to deliver the scheme.

Oxpens River Bridge was first granted planning permission in 2024, and would provide a walking and cycling route between Oxpens Meadow to Grandpont Nature Park.

There have been a number of delays to building the bridge, including a judicial review brought by campaigners which was dismissed in March last year.

Oxford City Council announced this week that contractors Jacksons Civil Engineering Group had been chosen to deliver the bridge.

Alex Hollingsworth, who is the authority's planning and culture chief, said the announcement was a "major step forward for Oxford's sustainable transport network".

"The Oxpens River Bridge will improve connectivity for residents and visitors while protecting the natural environment," he said.

"I'm pleased that the revised design means more trees can be kept, ensuring the project respects and enhances Grandpont Nature Park."

The announcement came following an attempt to kill the project during a council meeting on Monday failed, after councillors ran out of time.

Dozens of protestors from the Friends of Grandpont Nature Park group had gathered outside Oxford's Town Hall before the meeting in support of the anti-bridge motion.

Dan Glazebrook, a member of the campaign group, said that the "incredible £14m price tag for the bridge would be far better spent elsewhere".

He said that project was "a flagrant misuse of money intended to alleviate the housing crisis, which has instead been diverted into a pointless and destructive white elephant project that serves no useful purpose".

"Local residents can see that clearly and will keep up the fight to save a much-loved and previous woodland from gratuitous destruction," he added.

The bridge, which is expected to cost £14m, is due to be craned into position in September, with work scheduled to finish by February 2027.

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