Construction of the final section of a new link road between Wantage and Grove has begun after early phase earthworks were completed in October 2023, two weeks ahead of schedule.

Known as the Wantage Eastern Link Road (WELR), the new road will extend between the A417 (east of Wantage) and the A338 (north of Wantage). It will also provide direct access onto both the A338 and A417 for the Kingsgrove housing development.

The route will not only provide direct access for the residents of the development but will also deliver wider benefits, including:

• improved air quality in central Wantage by reducing traffic

• improvements to walking and cycling facilities

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• reduced congestion and easier journeys in Wantage town centre and surrounding road junctions by creating an alternative 'bypass' route.

The WELR scheme is being delivered in three sections. Sections one and two, the eastern and western arms of the road, have been delivered and funded by St Modwen, developer of the Kingsgrove housing development. The final section (section three) is the middle section linking the eastern and western arms. This is being constructed by Galliford Try on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council.

Councillor Judy Roberts, Oxfordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Development Strategy, said: "We've reached a vital point in the delivery of this scheme, and I’m delighted that we’ve been able to progress the main civils works ahead of schedule.

"Wantage is a historic market town that is rapidly growing. The Wantage Eastern Link Road scheme will bring key benefits to the town. The developer has also worked hard to progress their parts of the infrastructure and by working together, we are investing in an improved transport network, including walking and cycling infrastructure, which will connect Wantage and its adjacent villages with the key employment centres in the Science Vale."