We plan to close three level crossings in Oxfordshire to improve safety and increase capacity on the railway. We are currently finalising our application for a Transport and Works Act Order.
Background
The Oxfordshire Level Crossings project is part of Oxfordshire Connect – a joint strategy to transform the railway across Oxfordshire and beyond. It stems from the Oxfordshire Rail Corridor Study that was published in 2021. This report assessed the impact of planned growth in jobs and housing on Oxfordshire’s rail system and identified the role that rail can play to support the delivery of that growth.
Commissioned and funded jointly by the Department for Transport and the Oxfordshire Growth Board, the Oxfordshire Rail Corridor Study was produced by Network Rail, with oversight from the Growth Board, in collaboration with industry partners and the County and City Councils, to help develop an overarching strategy for rail development.
The Oxford corridor is a key freight route from the port of Southampton to the Midlands and the north. Every freight train removes 76 lorries from our roads so increasing the number of rail freight services is good for the environment but more trains on the line would increase the risk at two level crossings along the route (Sandy Lane and Yarnton).
What is being proposed?
To reduce risk, prevent misuse and improve safety for everyone, these level crossings need to be closed. We also need to implement a permanent solution at Tackley level crossing, which was closed under emergency measures in 2020.
Closing the three crossings would also allow us to provide capacity for an additional two freight trains per hour, additional Birmingham to Oxford services, increased maintenance access and safety improvements.
Options for permanent solutions to close the three crossings are currently being considered with the aim of having all three crossings permanently closed by the end of 2024.
To secure land and consents required for the alternative solutions proposed, Network Rail intends to submit an application for a Transport and Works Act Order to the Secretary of State for Transport.
Key Benefits
- Safety improvements
- Two additional freight train paths per hour, removing HGVs from the roads
- Capacity for additional Birmingham to Oxford services, improving journey opportunities
Level crossing locations
Frequently asked questions
Downloads
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Get in touch
If you would like any further information, please email oxfordlevelcrossings@networkrail.co.uk