Tackley Level Crossing

We’re developing plans to replace Tackley level crossing with a new footbridge and lifts and diverting a bridleway.

Tackley level crossing was closed under emergency measures in 2020. We submitted a Transport and Works Act Order to permanently close the crossing.

Our original plans also included proposals to close Sandy Lane and Yarnton Lane level crossings. This has been deferred due to freight growth forecasts not being as high as anticipated. We will continue to monitor freight demand in the area to identify when further work may be needed.

Public safely remains our highest priority and we continue to monitor, inspect and risk assess all level crossings.

New footbridge

We’re building a new footbridge with two lifts at Tackley station. This will be built on Network Rail land under permitted development. The bridge will be built on the site of the current, temporary, scaffold bridge. Work beings in May 2026 and the new bridge will open in spring 2027, with the lifts to follow in summer.

To allow the new bridge to be built, from 12 June 2026 the southbound platform, doe trains towards Oxford, will be closed. No trains will call at this platform until the new bridge opens. Trains will continue to call at the northbound platform, for trains towards Banbury, as normal. Passengers for Oxford can take a northbound train and change platforms at Hanbury or take the Stagecoach S4 bus to Oxford.

Tackley Transport and Works Act Order

We applied for a Transport and Works Act Order to change the route of the bridleway near Tackley station. A public inquiry was held between 18 June and 3 July 2024. After reviewing the planning inspector’s report, the Secretary of State (SoS) issued a “minded to refuse” decision in May 2025.

The SoS invited Network Rail to consider an alternative route for the bridleway further away from the railway. An alternative route was proposed and consultation took place with key stakeholders. We are waiting for a decision by the SoS.

If you have any comments, please e-mail the Transport Infrastructure Planning Unit at transportinfrastructure@dft.gov.uk.

Tackley Transport and Works Act Order application documents

Statement of Case documents

Frequently asked questions

Get in touch

If you would like any further information, please email oxfordlevelcrossings@networkrail.co.uk