Oxford controversial bridge scheme cost rises by £3.7m
Oxford City Council said the increase in cost was due to the inflation of construction costs, caused by the delay from the judicial review.In a report prepared ahead of a scrutiny committee meeting on Tuesday, the council said it was working with potential benefactors, including Homes England and the University of Oxford, to bridge the funding gaps.
Construction work on the bridge is set to begin in early 2026, with a view to be completed by February 2027.Campaigners Friends of Grandpont Nature Park, who brought the judicial review, said it "hopes to save [the taxpayer] millions by scrapping the project altogether".The group has submitted an appeal against the high court decision, and is waiting to hear whether it can proceed.The city council previously said the bridge would provide a walking route between Osney Mead and Oxpens - with both areas set for regeneration with new homes and jobs.Funding for the bridge currently consists of £8.8m from the Oxfordshire Housing and Growth Deal, and £1.5m from the Housing and Infrastructure Fund from Homes England.Those opposed to the development argue locals would lose a cherished nature park, emphasising that there is already a bridge a short distance away that could be fixed instead.
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