Repairs to continue as ‘busy’ Oxfordshire road remains shut

Gas distribution company SGN closed Oxford Road, south of the city and passing through Bagley Wood near Kennington, in both directions at around 8.21am yesterday morning (Friday, August 28).

This was reportedly due to a gas leak with the company telling the Oxford Mail that the leak was found on a high-pressure gas pipe.

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Residents have reported the smell of gas in the area and now a spokesperson for SGN has said repairs will likely continue into next week.

They said: “Unfortunately, we have temporarily closed Oxford Road in Bagley Wood, Kennington, to undertake emergency repair works.

“The road is closed at its junction with Bagley Wood Road. We’re aware this is a busy route and are very sorry for the inconvenience caused.

“The closure is necessary to ensure everyone’s safety while these essential works are carried out.”

Oxford Road near Kennington (Image: Google Maps)

They added: “Our engineers expect to complete a temporary repair to the gas main today.

“Due to the condition of the pipe, a section of the gas main will then need to be replaced.

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“These urgent replacement works are expected to continue into next week, and we will provide a further update on reopening Oxford Road once we have confirmed the timescales.

“We would like to thank the local community for its continued patience and support.”

A signed diversion has been put in place via the A34 and local diversions are also in place via Sugworth Lane and Kennington Road.