TODAY marks the launch of another major roadwork project right through the heard of central Headington.

A 2.2km pipeline will be constructed over the next 19 weeks uprooting roads all the way from the John Radcliffe to the Churchill Hospitals.

The project, which will save the NHS money on energy bills and reduce emissions, sparked controversy in January when contractors Vital Energi got started with the work before securing permission.

Residents recently blasted the decision to complete the works at the same time as another sweeping infrastructure improvement project taking place across the area already – the Access to Headington project.

Headington Quarry councillor Roz Smith said ahead of the launch of the works: “I have always said that I am concerned that the two projects are going to go on at the same time.

“I think residents have been kept informed of the progress of the works enough which is good and most people are aware of what is going to happen when it starts.

“But I think what is going to happen is we will have visitors to Headington coming to the area and to the hospitals and seeing all of the disruption.

“I think it is going to be more of a problem to visitors to the area going out and having to experience the disruption.

“But they have got the pipeline to do and so we are going to have to grin and bear it unfortunately.”

She also warned that contractors told councillors at a meeting last week that the project was in danger of falling two weeks behind schedule.

She said: “The project was always going to be weather dependent which is the big problem, and we have had lots of rain already.

“Bad weather could cause lengthy delays for the projects.

“I think that Vital Energi are trying their best to help with residents and will help with people carrying their shopping in affected areas.

“As I understand it Vital Energi are going to try and do the work as quickly as possible so the disruption is kept to a minimum.”

However, another councillor said that some of the concerns raised over widespread disruption was short-minded.

Marston councillor Mick Haines said: “I think it all boils down to moaning. Moaning about the car parking and the spaces etc.

“But really it is a very important project for the hospitals in the long run which is going to save a lot of money.

“I know there is going to be disruption at the moment but I think quite honestly it’s a good idea for the hospitals.

“It is short term problems and people not looking at the long term benefit of the facilities.”