The OPT team, alongside our fantastic volunteers, returned to the Swing Bridge at Rewley Road to begin our annual scheduled maintenance. As a designated scheduled monument, the Swing Bridge requires regular attention to ensure it remains structurally sound and operable – preserving a significant part of Oxford’s industrial heritage.

The works involved a full inspection of the bridge’s ironwork, timber, masonry, and paintwork. We carefully cleaned the components, recorded any signs of damage or deterioration, and pumped out the turning pit. We also cleaned and greased the bridge’s moving parts, getting it ready for our next work party when we hope to be able to use the windlass handles to turn the bridge.

We are incredibly grateful to our dedicated volunteers, whose hard work and enthusiasm make this important conservation work possible.