Work on new cycling and walking measures in Bicester and Witney are completed

Work to boost healthier and greener forms of travel in Bicester and Witney have been completed.

The two schemes have re-allocated road space to cyclists and pedestrians and measures are either permanent or have the scope to become permanent. The work has led to the creation of an attractive environment that will make it easier for residents, workers and visitors in Bicester and Witney to walk and cycle.

OxLEP secured £1.4 million of investment for the project from the government’s Local Growth Fund. The project has been delivered by Oxfordshire County Council. Residents will also benefit from reduced levels of air pollution.

Councillor Duncan Enright, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Travel and Development Strategy, said: “Our historic and beautiful market towns of Witney and Bicester have grown in recent years and will continue to see an increase in employment opportunities and housing.

“It is great to see this investment as a start to create healthier, cleaner and safer travel options, which will also help combat the climate emergency. We must continue to build new footpaths and cycle routes to serve these towns.”

Nigel Tipple, OxLEP Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to learn that work has completed on these schemes, benefitting both businesses and residents alike, as well as supporting a shift towards cleaner travel.

“As the local enterprise partnership for Oxfordshire, we continue to play a vitally important role moving forward, securing investment that enables and unlocks new opportunities for our many businesses and communities right across the county.”

New measures in Bicester

Off-road pedestrian and cycle facilities and reduced traffic speeds will encourage those who might have previously used a car to walk or cycle to get into town. The route stretches from the eastern end of Middleton Stoney Road, through to Oxford Road/Kings End and Causeway.

New measures in Witney

The improved cycling facilities follows the already existing cycle route through Witney and connects onward to the main Witney to Oxford cycle route via the A40. It will also combine with proposed improvements in western Witney that together provide a continuous east to west route across the whole town.