Residents in Bicester are being invited to share their views on a major cycling and walking improvement scheme aimed at creating safer and more accessible routes along London Road (A41). Oxfordshire County Council has launched a public consultation, open until 18th March 2025, to gather feedback on the proposed plans, which are designed to connect key areas of the town more effectively and promote active travel.
Phase 1 will see better crossings and wider pavements for shared use.
What’s Being Proposed?
The Bicester London Road Active Travel Scheme is a comprehensive plan to enhance walking, cycling, and wheeling routes along one of the town’s most important transport corridors. The improvements will help link residential areas, business parks, and transport hubs, making it easier to travel without relying on a car.
New Two-Way Cycleway – A dedicated separated cycle lane along London Road (A41) between Ploughley Road and Launton Road, improving safety and accessibility.
Safer Walking Routes – Wider pavements and new pedestrian crossings to create a more convenient and secure environment for walkers and wheelchair users.
Improved Crossings – New zebra crossings for cyclists and pedestrians at key points, including:
- Talisman Road
- Langford Brook
- Launton Road Mini-Roundabout
Extended 30mph Speed Limit – Reducing speeds on London Road from Talisman Road to Rodney House Roundabout (currently 40mph) to improve safety.
New Landscaping Areas – Additional greenery and planting along certain sections to enhance the pedestrian environment.
Resurfaced and Improved Paths – Upgrades to existing cycle paths to improve connectivity to the A41 and Graven Hill.
The scheme will be delivered in three phases, with Phase 1 designed and built first, while Phases 2 and 3 will be developed as further funding becomes available.
Phase 1 will also see a raised zebra crossing improving pedestrian safety
Why This Matters for Bicester
Bicester is one of the fastest-growing towns in Oxfordshire, with the population expected to rise from 30,000 to 55,000 by 2034. As new housing developments, business parks, and transport hubs emerge, better infrastructure is needed to support the shift towards more sustainable travel.
- More people-friendly streets – Encouraging walking and cycling as practical alternatives to driving.
- Less congestion and pollution – Reducing car dependency helps ease traffic pressure and improve air quality.
- Better connections to key destinations – Making it easier to reach workplaces, schools, and shopping areas without a car.
- Safer journeys for everyone – The separation of cycling and pedestrian spaces reduces conflicts with vehicles, creating a safer environment for road users of all ages and abilities.
Councillor Andrew Gant, Cabinet Member for Transport Management, stressed the importance of these plans:
“Homes, jobs and businesses will always need good access choices. Joining the dots to make it easier to get safely between key destinations in your neighbourhood is an important consideration for now and for future proofing flexible travel as the town grows.
“More options for local journeys made by walking, wheeling or cycling helps us enjoy what’s around us unfettered by the stress of traffic queues and finding parking space. We can feel healthier and engage more easily with our local environment.
“We’d like to hear how cycling, walking and wheeling around London Road works for you, and how the proposals could support that, or where they may need some changes. This will help to shape the final plans and give us a detailed picture of what matters for you when they are considered for approval.”
Phase 1 will see a two-way cycleway
Breaking Down the Three Phases
Phase 1: London Road (Rodney House Roundabout to Bicester Village Railway Station)
- New two-way cycleway along the west side of London Road.
- New pedestrian path from Talisman Roundabout to Rodney House Roundabout.
- New pedestrian and cyclist crossings at Talisman Road and Langford Brook.
- Extended 30mph speed limit for increased safety.
Phase 2 will see a pavement on the west side of London Road
Phase 2: London Road (Launton Road to Bicester Village Railway Station)
- Wider pavements for shared use by walkers and cyclists.
- New raised crossings at the Launton Road Mini-Roundabout for safer movement.
Additional green spaces and landscaping improvements.
Phase 3: A41 (Ploughley Road to Rodney House Roundabout)
- New two-way cycleway on the southwest side of the A41.
- New pedestrian path, separate from cyclists, improving access.
- Wider shared-use pavement on the A41 near the Pioneer Roundabout.
Each phase is designed to enhance connectivity between Bicester’s town centre, Graven Hill, Wretchwick Green, and the Symmetry Business Park.
Phase 3 will see new pedestrian paths
How Can You Get Involved?
- Consultation Deadline: Tuesday, 18 March 2025 (closes at 11:59pm)
- Where to View the Plans & Survey: Let’s Talk Oxfordshire
- Email Feedback & Questions: BicesterLondonRoad@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Paper Survey Submission:
Can be returned in person or posted for free to: Freepost OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL
(Write ‘Bicester London Road’ on the envelope to ensure it reaches the right team.)
Drop-In Event John Paul II Centre, Causeway, Bicester, OX26 6AW
- Tuesday 25 February 2025
- 2.00pm – 8:00pm
Residents can attend an in-person event to view the plans, ask questions, and speak with project staff.
Your input will shape the final designs before they are considered for approval by Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet.
Phase 3 will also see wider shared-use pavements
What Happens Next?
Following the consultation, the feedback collected will be used to refine the proposals before a final decision is made. If approved, work will begin later in 2025, with Phase 1 as the initial priority.
The plans align with wider initiatives such as:
- Bicester Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP)
- Cherwell Local Plan
- Central Oxfordshire Travel Plan
- Oxfordshire’s Local Transport and Connectivity Plan
These policies support the shift towards safer, more sustainable travel across the county.
Why Your Opinion Matters
Whether you cycle to work, walk to school, or simply want safer streets, this project could significantly impact how Bicester moves in the future.
🔹 Would these improvements encourage you to cycle or walk more?
🔹 Are there missing connections or changes that should be considered?
🔹 What features do you think are most important?
Join the conversation and help shape the future of travel in Bicester!
