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.
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 outcomes.
Additional money from local developers (known as Section 106 contributions) funded crossing facility and signal improvements at the Bridge Street junction.
