THE northbound A34 near Oxford will be closed for the second of two weekend closures from tonight (Friday) until Monday morning for 'essential bridge repairs'.

Highways England, which is carrying out the work, says two weekend closures were needed and this is the second, with the A34 closed from 8pm tonight until 5.30am on Monday.

The company said the work will ensure that the carriageway remains in a safe and serviceable condition and will reduce the need for unplanned maintenance.

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The bridge, which carries the A34 over the B4044 Botley Road, was built in 1961 and has been deteriorating due to waterproofing problems, leading to significant potholes forming on a regular basis.

During the work, the northbound A34 will be closed from the A423 Hinksey Hill junction to the A420 Botley Interchange, and lane two of the southbound A34 will be closed for road worker safety.

Also, from Monday for five nights, the northbound A34 will be closed between 9pm and 6am between the A423 Hinksey Hill junction and the A420 Botley Interchange to allow the bridge joints to be installed once the main repairs have taken place.

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Delays are expected during these closures, and drivers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys.

Highways England provides live traffic information via its website (www.trafficengland.com), local and national radio travel bulletins, electronic road signs and mobile apps. Local Twitter services are also available at @HighwaysSEAST.