After years of protracted discussion over the prospect of demolishing and replacing Steventon railway bridge Network Rail have announced that they are delaying plans until at least April 2019.
Having rejected alternative solutions to complete the electrification of the Great Western Main Line, Network Rail have sought Listed Building Consent from the Vale of White Horse District Council to demolish the bridge. This application will be determined by the Council's planning committee in October.
This week's announcement means that regardless of the outcome of that decision by the Vale, Network Rail have abandoned plans to knock down and rebuild the bridge in 2018.
Electrification will still go ahead as planned to deliver improved capacity and reliability for commuters but instead of the demolition temporary solution will be put in place at Steventon including a speed reduction.
The full statement from Network Rail is available below.