Plans for new road bridge crossing discussed by Councillors

Fresh plans for a new road bridge crossing in London Road have been considered in meetings with local councillors.

Research undertaken as part of the Oxford to Cambridge rail link plans which will add additional capacity between Bicester and Oxford suggest that the London Road level crossing will not be viable once the line is operational, essentially cutting off vehicle access to Bicestef town for residents on the east of Bicester.

East West Rail stated: "London Road level crossing in Bicester is a vital route for people to get into the town centre on foot, by bicycle, public transport and car. Once all EWR services are introduced on the line, the barriers are expected to be down for a significant portion in every hour."

They added: "We’ve yet to confirm a preferred solution as we’re continuing to consider options for the crossing that keep the town connected and minimise inconvenience. As part of this, we’re considering how the crossing could be safely kept open for local traffic."

MP Victoria Prentis said: "Further studies have concluded that signalling improvements will not be enough to keep the current crossing viable once the line is fully operational between Oxford and Cambridge."

Bicester residents will have the chance to review the plans and share feedback in a planned public consultation later this year.

Prentis added: "With the first services expected to run between Oxford and Milton Keynes as early as next year, the councillors and I emphasised the need for East West Rail to implement a viable design as quickly as possible.

"I will continue to work with our local representatives and my colleagues in Government until a long-term solution is secured."

You can read the latest on East-West Rail's plans here: https://eastwestrail.co.uk/proposed-route/routeupdate