Part of tunnel closes for six weeks for repairs

A 120m (0.12km) section of tunnel will be closed for about six weeks for repairs and improvements to be carried out.

West Northamptonshire Council said the Oxendon Tunnel, which is part of the Brampton Valley Way in Northampton, would be closed from 13 July until 21 August.

Works to the tunnel will include excavating the surface, installing a new sub-base and constructing a new durable surface to ensure it remains safe and accessible, the authority added.

Nigel Stansfield, the cabinet member for environment, recycling and waste, said: "This essential improvement work will preserve the historic tunnel and ensure the route can remain open and continue to be enjoyed for decades to come."

The Reform UK-led council said temporary repairs had been carried out to the footpath in previous years and it had now reached the point where more substantial works were necessary.

Owing to bats occupying the tunnel, the dates of the closure have been set out by the Bat Earned Recognition scheme licence, which was issued by Natural England.

The tunnel's other sections and the Kelmarsh Tunnel would remain open during the works and a clearly signposted 1,600m (1.6km) diversion route is in place.

Stansfield said: "Oxendon Tunnel forms an integral part of the Brampton Valley Way, which is valued by local people and visitors alike as a popular route for cycling and walking.

"We apologise for the inconvenience these works will cause."

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