Overnight road closures as inner relief road scheme reaches conclusion
07/07/2026
Improved bus journey times, safer crossings and better traffic signals are promised when the project is completed
The long running project to improve bus times and safety on Cherwell Street in Banbury is entering its final stages, with overnight surfacing work taking place this week and next.
Weekday overnight closures on the inner relief road and local junctions will be in force between 8pm and 6am whilst this work is completed, with motorists required to follow signed diversion routes.
The use of £3.5m for the project was previously criticised by Banbury Councillor Kieron Mallon who noted the scheme resulted in buses arriving just “47 seconds” earlier.
But this week Deddington Councillor Gareth Epps, who is the Cabinet Member for Transport, stood by the work. He said: “The Cherwell Street project is part of our commitment to supporting sustainable travel and ensuring bus services remain a reliable and attractive option for people travelling into and around Banbury.
“When work is finished, residents and commuters will benefit from improved bus journey times, as well as safer crossings and better traffic signals at these key junctions.
“Site teams are working hard to complete resurfacing in July and test the new traffic signals in August. I’d like to thank residents, businesses and travellers for their forbearance during this work to improve a very busy area of Banbury. I know that disruption is never welcome, but completing the resurfacing at night helps to reduce traffic delays during the day and allows us to work faster.
“If you are travelling through the area overnight, especially in a vehicle, please leave extra time to follow the diversion.”.
Construction work on the new scheme began in January.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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