Investigation work is set to begin on a key ring road roundabout in the first step of a multi-million pound scheme, which will see it converted into a cross road.

Work to transform the Banbury Road roundabout on Bicester’s ring road into a new junction will start on November 14.

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The scheme is being funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), with a budget of £5.5 million for the improvements.

Oxfordshire County Council is redeveloping the junction to encourage people to walk, cycle and use public transport, reduce congestion and futureproof the it as new homes and jobs come to the town.

Oxford Mail: How the project will look when it is completed How the project will look when it is completed (Image: Oxfordshire County Council)

The planned work will:

  • Convert the existing roundabout into a crossroad with traffic lights.
  • Increase capacity for vehicles and reduce delays, helping to address congestion at the junction.
  • Maintain access for drivers making a right turn from Fringford Road.
  • Incorporate a reduced speed limit of 30mph.
  • Improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians, with segregated cycleways and crossings at the western and southern arms of the redesigned junction. 

Initial investigation work will run between November 14 and December 9 where trial holes will be dug to establish ground conditions, this will inform the design of the new crossroad.

The work on the carriageway and footpaths will take place overnight from November 14 to December 2 and during the day from December 2 to 9.

There will be no work at weekends.

People who use the road can expect lane and footways closures, temporary traffic lights, pedestrian diversions, and marshals to help people cross safely while the work takes place.

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This story was written by Sophie Perry. She joined the team in 2021 as a digital reporter.

You can get in touch with her by emailing: sophie.perry@newsquest.co.uk

Follow her on Twitter @itssophieperry

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