Access to Witney update

We are building new slip roads at the A40/B4022 Shores Green junction to improve access to Witney, reduce congestion at town centre, and provide new walking and cycling paths and crossings.

Main construction works underway
 
Following the successful completion of the enabling works, the main works construction for the Access to Witney (Shores Green) project officially began on 8 May 2025.
 
The enabling works, which started in February 2025, focused on mobilising the construction team, setting up the site compound, carrying out crucial pre-construction surveys, discharging relevant planning conditions and completing essential SSE utility diversions. Other activities included:

•        Full site-wide vegetation and tree clearance
•        Implementation of ecology and environmental protection measures
•        Installation of temporary traffic management on the A40 and B4022
•        Initial earthworks in the northern and southern sections of the site

What is next? Full construction

Over the next six months, the project will focus on:

• Completing all earthworks across the site
• Installing key drainage infrastructure, including ponds to manage excess rainwater
• Commencing road construction and footpaths
• Traffic signage and other ancillary works.
• Continuing environmental protection and landscaping preparations



 Construction programme is on track to be completed by summer 2026 as planned.

Our plans for the environment 

While it's been necessary to remove some vegetation to enable construction, we have a robust landscaping and environmental protection strategy to restore the site.

Key measures include:

• Re-vegetation of disturbed areas with native species and appropriate biodiversity offsetting off and onsite
• Implementation of erosion control, measures to mitigate soil degradation
• Continuous monitoring and restoration of natural habitats and ecosystems
• Planting of trees, shrubs and hedges
• Creation of wildlife-friendly habitats and ecological corridors
• Implementation of measures to safeguard and enhance local biodiversity

Project timeline

Public engagement  May 2021 - complete

Preferred option presented to Cabinet  July 2021 - complete

Planning application submission  Early 2022 - complete

Planning approval  Mid-2023 - complete

Detailed design commences  Early 2024 - complete

Compulsory purchases and side roads orders made  Sept 2024 - complete

Enabling works begin on site February 2025 - complete

Construction begins on site  Spring 2025 - ongoing

Construction works completed  Summer 2026