Oxford City Council appoints contractor for Oxpens River Bridge project

Oxford City Council has taken a significant step towards delivering the long-planned Oxpens River Bridge after appointing Jacksons Civil Engineering as preferred contractor for the £14m pedestrian and cycle crossing, which forms a central part of the West End regeneration programme.

image: Oxford City Council

The bridge will provide a new, traffic-free route across the River Thames, significantly improving walking and cycling connections between the city centre, the railway station, Osney Mead and residential areas to the south and west of Oxford.

According to the council, the scheme will reduce reliance on car travel by offering a direct and attractive cycling alternative to congested routes. The bridge also forms a key part of the city’s wider active travel network, linking into existing and planned cycle routes and footpaths and supporting Oxford’s objectives to cut congestion, improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions.

Work on site is expected to begin in spring 2026, with the bridge due to be craned into position later in the year. Completion is targeted for early 2027.

The 112m long structure has a 37m main central over the river with additional shorter spans over the surrounding floodplain. Its deck will accommodate a 3.5-metre-wide shared path for walkers and cyclists, bounded by parapets and modest structural arches.

The city council describes the bridge as visually lightweight and says the design and construction are intended to minimise impacts on the floodplain and ecological areas.

The project has nevertheless encountered multiple setbacks in recent years, largely focused on environmental concerns. Following the granting of planning permission, local campaigners brought a judicial review and although it was subsequently dismissed, the original contractor Balfour Beatty withdrew from the project last year. Local opposition persists, although the council says the latest scheme minimises tree loss.

Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Oxford City Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Culture said, "This is 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. I'm pleased that the revised design means more trees can be kept, ensuring the project respects and enhances Grandpont Nature Park."