Drivers in Oxfordshire have told to brace themselves for 12 months of roadworks as construction on the A4130 Steventon lights integrated transport scheme begiuns on Monday, November 17.

Oxfordshire County Council says the scheme, which is expected to last one year, will bring improvements to bus services, walking and cycling and are designed to support housing and employment growth in the Science Vale area of South Oxfordshire, according to the Oxford Mail.

The improvements include a dedicated eastbound bus lane, improved cycling and walking facilities and junction improvements at Steventon High Street and Trenchard Avenue.

To prepare for construction, work has already been completed to survey and clear the area, divert utilities and clean all surface water drainage along the route.

The project will be built in six phases, with phase one starting on Monday.

A one-way traffic system will be in-place, from 17 November to 19 December, with traffic only allowed to exit onto the A4130 from Trenchard Avenue. The alternative route for traffic accessing Trenchard Avenue from A4130 is through Milton Hill.

Night work will also take place at the High Street junction, Trenchard Avenue and A4130 towards Milton Interchange, from 17 November to 3 December.

Councillor Judy Roberts, cabinet member for Place, Environment and Climate Action, said: “The Steventon lights project will make it easier and more attractive to take the bus, with the new bus lane reducing congestion and making journey times more reliable between Steventon and Milton Interchange.

“The project will also improve safety for all road users with new crossings and signals, and the new cyclist and pedestrian facilities will encourage more walking, wheeling and cycling.”

(Picture: Oxfordshire County Council)