A423 Kennington improvements programme
We are improving the Kennington stretch of the A423, by replacing the existing bridge structure and prioritising space for cycling, walking and public transport. The programme will also complement the Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme, to be delivered by the Environment Agency.
About the improvements
The A423 Kennington improvement programme includes:
- the replacement of Kennington rail bridge
- improved facilities for cycling and walking
- a new eastbound bus lane – also for use by vehicles travelling to Redbridge park and ride
- increased capacity of the Hinksey streams for flood alleviation
Figure 1. A layout picture showing where the work will take place on the A423
Why we are investing here
We are investing across the county to provide a modern, sustainable travel network that will enable people to rely less on their cars. This means putting better bus, cycling and walking infrastructure at the centre of our major projects.
Kennington rail bridge is regularly inspected and monitored but needs to be replaced. Reconstruction of the bridge will ensure safety for all users as well as the opportunity to prioritise road space for bus, walking and cycling.
Timescales
| Activity | Target date |
|---|---|
| Public engagement | September - October 2022 (complete) |
| Trial holes to plan diversion of water main | 24 January - 10 February 2023 (complete) |
| Planning application submitted | February 2023 (complete) |
| Planning Regulation 25 consultation | Advertised on 18 July, ended on 18 August 2024 (complete) |
| Bridge safeguarding inspection | August 2024 (complete) |
| Planning permission granted | 14 October 2024 (complete) |
| Trial holes and bridge inspection | 17-18 January 2025 (complete) |
| Detailed design | Ongoing |
This may be subject to change, due to the complexities of the work involved.
What you can expect
Kennington rail bridge will remain open until we start building works. As part of the planning process, we review the construction methodology to determine how best to construct the improvements.
We are also considering how to manage the impact on road users. Alternative routes will be provided and signed for pedestrians and cyclists throughout the work. Full details of how we will manage and divert traffic will be made available before we start work.
Phase 1 - Safeguarding work
The bridge has already been propped at its piers, and as part of phase one, its load-carrying capacity will be increased so that work can be carried out safely.
Phase 2 – Reconstruction
A423 Eastbound Lane
We are proposing to widen the A423 eastbound to introduce a lane for left-turning vehicles into Old Abingdon Road, a bus lane, and a footway/cycleway between Old Abingdon Road and Kennington roundabout.
The existing footway/cycleway on the southern bridge of the rail bridge will be retained.
Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme (OFAS)
Combining the bridge replacement works with the Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme (OFAS). Requirements will minimise disruption on the A423.
For more information on OFAS, visit the EA FAQ page on their scheme.
Planning application
In autumn 2022 we opened a digital exhibition to showcase our plans and allowed residents to share their views online or in person at four local events.
In February 2023, we submitted a planning application based on the feedback we received. The application was made available for public comment from 9 March to 9 April 2023.
Following a review of how the scheme could be constructed, it was determined that additional ground clearance was needed to deliver the improvements.
Extra planning documentation was submitted in May 2024, and to comply with planning regulations, a 30-day consultation on these changes ran from 18 July to 18 August 2024.
Planning approval was granted in October 2024.
How it is being funded
The scheme is financed through multiple sources including the county council, Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership and OFAS.
Contact us
If you would like to know more, you can contact us by emailing A423Kenningtonimprovements@oxfordshire.gov.uk