Work to begin at busy town centre junction In January
20/11/2025
Residents are advised to plan ahead with the project set to take until the summer
Work to widen traffic lanes on Cherwell Street and improve traffic signals to make bus journeys through Banbury town centre more reliable will begin in early January.
Safer crossings for pedestrians at key junctions are also included as part of the £3.5m project.
Whilst work is underway the road will be subject to lane narrowing and lane closures with residents advised to plan ahead.
Those travelling through the area should look out for temporary traffic lights and signage, and stick to suggested diversions routes.
Oxfordshire County Council is leading the project, with the aim of improving the area between the George Street and Bridge Street junctions, where congestion currently delays bus journeys and safe pedestrian crossing options are limited.
Construction will take place simultaneously at the George Street and Bridge Street junctions, to reduce the amount of time spent working at this busy intersection. Some night works are planned, to minimise daytime disruption.
Its anticipated the work will be completed next summer.
Councillor Judy Roberts, Cabinet Member for Place, Environment and Climate Action, said: “This project is part of our efforts to tackle congestion across the county, making towns healthier, more accessible and attractive.
“It complements the Tramway Road improvements almost complete at Banbury Rail Station and longer-term plans to enhance sustainable transport options in the town, such as our exciting plans to upgrade cycling and walking routes from Overthorpe to Bridge Street Park.
“These improvements will open the door to new businesses, jobs and increased opportunities for economic growth.”
During earlier consultation stages of the project it was criticised over the level of benefits delivered in comparison to the cost. Banbury County Councillor Kieron Mallon questioned the expense when morning peak bus journey times were only improved by 47 seconds.
Further information about the project will be available at a drop-in event in Banbury Town Hall on Monday December 1 between 3 and 7pm.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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Toby Low On 20/11/2025 at 1:24 pm
This is an utter waste of money and will cause significant congestion. Fix the broken roads before spending on this idiotic scheme that no one wants. It has been opposed by a variety of Banbury road use groups – including taxi drivers. It is part of Councillor Andrew Grant’s Oxfordshire wide anti-car campaign (20mph limits were just the start). There was a consultation, no one wanted this and yet here we are. Typical Lib Dems.