I HAVE recently had a number of discussions with constituents and stakeholders regarding the disruption that would be caused by the closure of Steventon Bridge.

This measure is necessary to allow the electrification of the Great Western line to be completed and I have met with Network Rail numerous times to speak about this issue.

I have examined, with them, in great detail the alternative options – such as lowering the track to allow the power lines to pass under the existing bridge or building a new bridge parallel to the existing one, as happened at Grove.

At present, Network Rail believe there is no alternative to replacing the bridge.

If the bridge does close, I would want to see disruption kept to a minimum, and the closure to be as short as possible.

To this end, I have met English Heritage, Virgin Media, BT, Thames Water and Scottish and Southern, all with a view to ensuring that utilities providers are ready to go if the bridge is closed (restoring utilities is often one of the reasons these projects take so long).

I have of course worked closely with the county council, who own the bridge and are responsible for the highways.

Believe me, Network Rail have not covered themselves in glory: in many cases I have had to intervene to ensure works progress, and the delays and cost overruns on this project are outrageous.

But my way of working is to get things done, to work closely with all key stakeholders, and not to throw out mindless abuse for the sake of it.

The next great challenge will be the reservoir: I look forward to working with GARD on this, as I did successfully some years ago, when we secured a public enquiry which threw the proposal out.

In the past week, I have also convened a group of Oxfordshire MPs to meet with Simon Furlong, Oxfordshire’s Chief Fire Officer, in which we spoke at length about fire safety measures in place across the county. Following the recent tragedy at Grenfell Tower, I appreciate that many of you will be concerned about the issue – particularly those living in high-rise accommodation. Oxfordshire has five tower blocks, all of which have since been inspected by the Fire and Rescue Service.

I must also remind you that the fire service offer free ‘Safe and Well Visits’, where firefighters visit your home and see what they can do to help you reduce the risk of fire.

More information and fire safety advice can be found on Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service’s website 365alive.co.uk