Work starts in January to improve bus journeys and pedestrian access in Banbury

Work to give Banbury residents better travel choices along the town’s Cherwell Street will begin in early January. 

Oxfordshire County Council is leading work to widen traffic lanes and make improvements to traffic signals to make bus journeys through Banbury town centre more reliable, while creating safer crossings at key junctions for pedestrians. 

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.” 

The council is working with M Group Limited to improve the area between the George Street and Bridge Street junctions, where congestion delays bus journeys and safe pedestrian crossing options are limited. 

The work involves improving the current George Street bus lane; access for buses into Bridge Street west; and the crossing facilities and signalling at the Bridge Street and George Street junctions. 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. Work is scheduled to start in the week beginning 5 January and complete in summer 2026. 

Lane narrowing and lane closures will be needed at different points during the work. People travelling through the area should look out for temporary traffic lights and signage and stick to diversions routes that are put in place to ensure safety. Residents are advised to plan ahead. 

A drop-in information event will take place on Monday 1 December 2025, 3pm - 7pm at Banbury Town Hall, Bridge Street, Banbury. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet council officers, find out what to expect during construction and ask questions. 

The county council held consultations in spring 2024 and 2025, revising the project design based on public feedback, transport data and a road safety audit, while also considering input from councillors, bus operators, business groups and active travel groups. 

ENDS 

More information 

Key elements of the improvement project include: 
• A longer running lane for left-turning vehicles (including buses) on Cherwell Street. 
• Upgraded pedestrian facilities with new crossings to benefit people walking, cycling, and wheeling. 
• Optimised traffic signals along Cherwell Street and the area between the George Street and Bridge Street junctions. 
• Enhanced road markings and signage to improve traffic flow and safety. 

Details of the full range of improvements, work completed to date and how to contact the council can be found at oxfordshire.gov.uk/cherwellstreetbus 
More information on Banbury Rail Station improvements can be found at oxfordshire.gov.uk/banburystation 

The scheme is funded from Department for Transport Bus Service Improvement Plan monies with local developer Section 106 contributions paying for the pedestrian safety improvements. 

Sign up to hear from us and receive the latest news and updates in our fortnightly newsletter, Your Oxfordshire.