LONG-awaited repairs to what has been called Oxford’s worst stretch of canal towpath have been delayed by two weeks.

A scheme to resurface the section along Oxford Canal, between Walton Well Road and Aristotle Lane, was due to begin today.

But the Canal & River Trust said a “lack of resources” meant it now would not start the £158,000 project yet.

Instead it will carry out the work from February 2 and last about five weeks.

It comes after years of campaigning by residents and councillors, who have said the path is rocky and dangerous for cyclists.

It will be ripped up and replaced with a new asphalt surface in a joint scheme funded by the trust, Oxford City Council and Oxfordshire County Council.

The work had been timed to avoid the beginning of the water vole mating season in March but the revised schedule threatens to overrun into that.

The trust was not available for comment on the delay.

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