Graham has been appointed to deliver a major bypass scheme in Oxfordshire, with industry data provider Glenigan valuing the contract at £74m. Oxfordshire County Council selected the contractor to construct the Clifton Hampden Bypass, a key component of a wider infrastructure programme aimed at improving connectivity around Didcot and neighbouring communities.
The scheme forms one of three principal construction packages designed to reduce congestion and strengthen transport links across the area. It will reroute A415 traffic away from Clifton Hampden, easing pressure on the village centre and surrounding roads. The project includes a new single carriageway linking the A415 at Culham Science Centre with the B4015 Oxford Road, alongside segregated routes for pedestrians and cyclists.
At the western end, a roundabout will provide access to Culham Science Centre and Culham railway station, while additional junctions will integrate the new route with the existing road network. Judy Roberts, cabinet member for infrastructure and development strategy at Oxfordshire County Council, said the bypass would divert traffic away from the village centre, including routes near a primary school.
Andrew Henry, contracts director at Graham, said the firm would build on its existing relationship with the council to deliver the scheme.
Funding for the programme is being provided by Homes England through the Housing Infrastructure Fund. Pauline Schaffer, director of infrastructure funding at the agency, said the project would support housing delivery and economic growth in the area.
Enabling works are already under way, including site clearance, archaeological investigations and utility diversions. Main construction is expected to begin in the spring and continue for approximately two years.
The bypass forms part of a broader package of infrastructure improvements, including road upgrades, new transport routes and active travel provision. Other elements include the Culham river crossing and the Didcot Science Bridge, a separate £74m scheme being delivered by VolkerFitzpatrick. Graham has previously undertaken design work for both the Didcot bypass and the Culham crossing, contributing to the development of the overall programme.
