Discovery of unchartered services at station access project delays footpath reopening
25/04/2025
Despite the discovery there is no financial impact on the project
Work to create a new entrance to Banbury Train Station from Tramway has been interrupted by the discovery of unexpected utility services underground.
It means the footpath leading from Tramway into Banbury Station will now remain closed until late June. It was due to reopen next week.
Construction of the nearly £16m project began in October, with the costs of work having nearly doubled since its inception in 2021.
A number of problems have hindered progress, including the presence of asbestos found earlier in the project.
The latest issue is the discovery of various unchartered services including, gas, electricity cables, water, and drainage services. Some of these are redundant, but some are serving adjacent properties.
Despite the delay in reopening the footpath there is no financial impact on the project, and phases one and two of work – constructing the new northeast section of Tramway Road and the new roundabout – are almost complete.
When finished the scheme should improve journey times to the station on foot and bike, as well as for buses and taxis, while also improving bus journey reliability into Banbury town centre. Its hoped the changes will also reduce traffic at the Bridge Street junction.
The project is expected to take about one year to complete.
Until the footpath reopens pedestrians, cyclists, and those being dropped off by car should continue following the existing diversion for their own safety.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
