Politics & Council · Oxford
Progress on North West Bicester link road scheme as planning phase restarts
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Oxfordshire County Council has resumed design and planning work for the north west Bicester strategic link road to support new housing and infrastructure growth.
Plans to deliver a major transport route in north west Bicester are moving forward following a decision by Oxfordshire County Council to restart the design and planning process. The project, which aims to improve connectivity and support the delivery of 6,000 new homes and 3,500 jobs, was previously paused in 2021 to allow for further housing development and the securing of essential developer funding.
The strategic link road is designed to create a new route connecting the A4095 at Middleton Stoney Road and Howes Lane with Lords Lane. This new connection will utilise a railway underbridge that was completed in 2021. Once operational, the road is expected to reduce traffic congestion in the area, divert vehicles away from existing residential streets, and provide better access for sustainable travel methods including walking, cycling and public transport.
Councillor Liz Leffman, Cabinet Member for Highways Construction and Repair, noted that the advancement of the scheme reflects the ongoing growth in the area. By coordinating with developers and partners, the council intends to provide the necessary infrastructure to support not only new housing but also a planned secondary school for the community.
The council has now commissioned the next phase of work, which includes:
Preliminary design and environmental assessments.
The preparation and submission of a formal planning application.
A feasibility study regarding the future use of the existing Howes Lane.
Detailed design work.
Current project projections estimate that preliminary design will conclude by spring 2027. The council expects to submit the planning application in the spring of that same year, with a final decision anticipated by winter 2027. Detailed design work is scheduled to commence in spring 2027.
While the project is progressing, the council has emphasised that construction of the full route remains subject to several factors, including the success of the planning application, final land agreements, continued collaboration with delivery partners and the availability of future funding. The scheme is a continuation of the previous Howes Lane and A4095 realignment projects, which saw the delivery of the first phase of underpasses for pedestrians and riders three years ago.
Source: Oxfordshire County Council · View original