Banbury bus service improvement project completed
Residents and commuters can enjoy faster, more reliable bus journeys and safer pedestrian crossings in Banbury town centre, as construction work on the Cherwell Street bus service improvement project is now complete.
As well as improving bus travel in the town, where congestion has historically affected journeys, the changes make it easier for people to walk to bus stops, shops, businesses and the rail station.
Oxfordshire County Council’s project, funded through the government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan programme, provides a longer running lane along Cherwell Street and optimised traffic signals at the George Street and Bridge Street junctions.
Pedestrian crossings have also been improved and nearby drainage and gully infrastructure cleaned.
Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said: “I’m delighted that work on the Cherwell Street improvement project is now complete on time and that people can begin to experience the benefits it will bring. I’d like to thank residents, businesses and everyone who uses this route for their patience during construction.
“Cherwell Street is a main gateway into Banbury town centre and an important route for local bus services. These improvements will help buses move through the area more efficiently, improving reliability for passengers and helping make public transport a more attractive choice.
“The project has also delivered safer and more accessible pedestrian crossings, making it easier for people to get around the town centre and connect with local shops, services and Banbury station.
“These improvements are an important part of our wider commitment to creating a transport network that is safer, more reliable and supports sustainable travel across Oxfordshire.”
Construction started in January 2026.
Surfacing and road lining works finished on 17 July, and the new permanent traffic signals have just been tested and installed.
The Cherwell Street scheme forms part of the council’s wider commitment to creating a healthier, more accessible and attractive county where journeys are quicker, more connected, more flexible and more reliable.
Ends
Notes to editors
The Cherwell Street bus service improvement project focused on Cherwell Street, between the George Street and Bridge Street junctions, and the Bridge Street and George Street junctions themselves.
The completed project includes:
· a longer running lane along Cherwell Street for left-turning vehicles, including buses, travelling north-bound into Bridge Street (west)
· optimised traffic signals at the George Street and Bridge Street junctions to reduce delay for buses and cars
· improved pedestrian facilities with new, safer, and more direct crossings
· and lining and signing work to improve traffic flow, safety, and overall road user experience.
The project is largely funded by the Department for Transport's Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) programme and improvements to bus service reliability and journey times were core requirements.
Additional money from local developers (known as Section 106 contributions) funded crossing facility and signal improvements at the Bridge Street junction.
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