National Highways has apologised to motorists and businesses after “essential works” to the Wolvercote Viaduct caused “traffic mayhem” over the weekend.
Planned works to the viaduct meant the A34 southbound between the Botley and Peartree interchanges was shut off to traffic from last Friday until early this morning.
A signed diversion via the Eastern Bypass Road, A40 and A44, between the Peartree and Hinksey Hill Interchanges was put in place but motorists travelling through Wolvercote reported “manic” traffic jams and parents were left unable to collect their children.
READ MORE: Motorists fear 'insane' A34 traffic 'mayhem' will continue
Speaking to the Oxford Mail, county councillor and cabinet member for highways Andrew Gant said he would be meeting National Highway’s officers “as soon as possible” to ensure a new plan was created for the “next southbound closures”.
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Today, a spokesman for National Highways said residents and businesses were warned in advance about the disruption over the weekend.
I’m aware of the significant delays due to the A34 closure over the weekend.@NationalHways did not do what had been agreed with @OxfordshireCC. I am joining the Council in asking questions about how this happened, and making sure mitigations are in place for next weekend.
— Layla Moran 🔶 (@LaylaMoran) May 15, 2023
He said: "We recognise the impact that any work of this kind has on local residents, which is why we wrote to local people beforehand to inform them about the work and how long it would take.
“The work is being carried out overnight and at weekends to reduce the impact on local road users.”
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National Highways highlighted the diversion routes were agreed in advance “with the local authorities and the emergency services”.
In addition, the spokesman apologised for “any impact our work will have on nearby residents and businesses” and promised National Highways would “try to minimise disruption to the local community”.
He added: “Living near a busy construction site is never easy.
“We try our best to be a good neighbour and thank the residents near the A34 at Wolvercote for bearing with us while we complete this vital work.”
National Highways highlighted it had agreed the programme of work with Oxfordshire County Council and Network Rail beforehand.
Network Rail and the county council have been contacted for comment.
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