Work is set to begin this winter on major improvements to Cherwell Street in Banbury, aimed at reducing congestion and making bus journeys into and out of the town centre more reliable.

The project was approved at an Oxfordshire County Council cabinet member decision meeting on 4 September. Construction, led by the council and contractor M Group Limited, is expected to be completed by summer 2026.

Plans include new bus priority measures, upgraded traffic signals along Cherwell Street, and improvements between the George Street and Bridge Street junctions. Pedestrian crossings will also be enhanced to benefit people walking, cycling, and wheeling to bus stops, the town centre, and Banbury Rail Station.

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The scheme involves upgrades to the George Street bus lane, improved access for buses into Bridge Street west, and enhanced signalling and crossing facilities at the Bridge Street junction.

The project follows two rounds of public consultation. An initial design, released in spring 2024, was revised based on feedback and transport modelling. A second consultation in spring 2025 shaped the final design, supported by a road safety audit.

Input was also taken from local councillors, Stagecoach Bus, business groups, and active travel representatives to help finalise the scheme.