Planning application goes in for A40 improvements

The authority is seeking approval for its proposed new park and ride site, located on the A40 north-west of Eynsham.

The application also includes an eastbound bus lane from the park and ride to Duke’s Cut canal bridge near Wolvercote, and two new sections of westbound bus lane on the approaches to Cassington traffic lights and Eynsham roundabout.

The proposed improvements could see new bus stops on the A40 at Eynsham and Cassington, junction, crossing changes and the widening of the shared walking and cycling path north of the A40.

It is hoped the changes will improve journey times on all public transport using the route.

A consultation was held between late 2018 to early 2019, and the council said that comments received have helped further shape the designs.

Councillor Yvonne Constance, cabinet member for environment, said: "We are moving a step closer towards a major improvement by giving people more travel options.

"A new park and ride, a new bus lane and better walking and cycling paths are consistent with what people tell us is needed to address congestion on the A40, will help us cut emissions by reducing the use of private cars.”

If the scheme is given approval, then a business case will be submitted to the Local Growth Fund, administered by the Department of Transport, which is partly funding the improvements.

If all goes to plan, work could begin in spring 2020, according to the county council.

People can now view and comment on the application on Oxfordshire County Council’s planning portal.

All comments must be received by July 15.