Access to Witney update
Update on the A40/B4022 Shores Green Junction
New slip roads are being built at the A40/B4022 Shores Green junction to improve access to Witney, reduce congestion in the town centre, and provide new footpaths and crossings.
Temporary footpath demobilised
The temporary footpath, constructed to maintain pedestrian access during the carriageway widening works on the B4022, has now been demobilised. With these works successfully completed, pedestrians can once again use the designated footpath on the B4022, benefiting from enhanced safety and the reassurance of familiar routes.
Drainage works ongoing
Drainage activities on the scheme are in full force, with significant progress being made across the site. The installation of manholes and their covers is actively underway along both the on-slip and off-slip sections as well as the B4022.
In addition, filter drains are being installed along both slip roads, further enhancing the project’s drainage infrastructure. These works are a key part of the ongoing construction efforts and will continue as the project advances.
Progress update
Since works start earlier in the year, the project has made significant progress:
- Vegetation clearance has been completed to allow for the safe construction of both slip roads.
- The bulk of earthworks excavation is now complete
- Construction of a new footpath has been completed to replace the temporary footway along the project extent on the B4022.
- Traffic management measures are in place to protect both road users and our workforce while works are ongoing.
Utilities diversion works have been successfully completed, ensuring minimal disruption to local services.
Our plans for the environment
While it's been necessary to remove some vegetation to enable construction, we have now started the re-vegetation of the disturbed area. Our robust landscaping and environmental protection strategy includes the following:
- Re-vegetation using native species, with appropriate on- and off-site biodiversity offsetting.
- Implementing erosion control to mitigate soil degradation.
- Continuous monitoring and restoration of natural habitats.
- Planting trees, shrubs, and hedges.
- Creating wildlife-friendly habitats and ecological corridors.
Safeguarding and enhancing 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
To stay up to date with the progress the A40 Access to Witney project's webpage is updated regularly.
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