The Delegated Decisions by Cabinet Member for Highway Construction and Repair meeting was held on Thursday 3 September 2026. The primary decision made was to accept £6.2 million in grant funding for the Didcot Northern Perimeter Road (NPR3) scheme. The meeting also addressed a question from a County Councillor regarding delays and cost increases for the NPR3 project.

Didcot Northern Perimeter Road (NPR3) Grant Funding Agreement

The Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, Councillor Liz Leffman, approved the acceptance of £6.2 million in grant funding for the Didcot Northern Perimeter Road (NPR3) scheme. This funding was originally received by South Oxfordshire District Council from the Department for Communities and Local Government. The decision also delegates authority to the Director of Environment and Highways to finalise a Grant Funding Agreement with South Oxfordshire District Council. The NPR3 scheme is described as a crucial missing link in Didcot's transport infrastructure, intended to support housing and economic growth, encourage sustainable travel, and improve air quality. The total capital allocation for the scheme is £14.721 million. The report indicates that the planning application for NPR3 is anticipated in Winter 2026/27, with construction expected to begin in Spring 2028.

Questions from County Councillors

Councillor Ian Snowdon submitted a question concerning the significant delays and increased capital allocation for the Didcot Northern Perimeter Road (NPR3) scheme. Councillor Snowdon noted that while the £6.2 million funding was agreed in principle by South Oxfordshire District Council in 2022, and its non-spending was previously highlighted, the construction is now not expected to begin until Spring 2028 and be completed by Autumn 2029. He questioned why a project deemed critical for Didcot's growth has experienced such prolonged delays and why the capital allocation has risen to £14.721 million.

Councillor Liz Leffman, Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, responded that the NPR3 is part of a wider infrastructure improvement package for the Didcot and wider Science Vale area, enabled by the North East Didcot and Ladygrove East developments. She explained that the southern part of NPR3 is planned to be delivered by developers, and the delivery timeframe needs to be coordinated to ensure both sections are completed. Councillor Leffman stated that regular discussions with developers are ongoing to achieve this coordination. She also mentioned that options are being explored for both design and delivery routes to ensure the greatest value for money.