A long-term strategy designed to improve transport connections and encourage healthier travel choices across Bicester and its surrounding villages has been approved by Oxfordshire County Council.
The county council’s cabinet adopted the latest movement and place plan for the area on 17 March, setting out a 25-year vision aimed at shaping transport and development in one of Oxfordshire’s fastest-growing areas.
The strategy outlines 13 objectives and a series of actions intended to reduce dependence on private cars by prioritising walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport. It is designed to support future housing growth, improve accessibility and protect the environment while helping communities remain connected.
Bicester, a historic market town in north Oxfordshire, is home to the internationally recognised shopping destination Bicester Village and the innovation hub Bicester Motion.
The council says the area currently has a population of 58,700, with that figure expected to rise to 66,100 by 2030. Further growth is also projected by 2050, increasing pressure on roads, public transport and local infrastructure, while adding to concerns over congestion, air quality and access in rural communities.
Judy Roberts, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for place, environment and climate action, said:
“Oxfordshire is embarking upon sustainable and positive change – placing people, communities and places at the heart of this decision making.
“The movement and place plans, including one for Bicester and its surrounding villages, will be key to this.
“They reflect the needs and aspirations of our communities, help to protect our natural environment and deliver the homes, businesses and leisure facilities that our communities need and enjoy.”
The plan’s objectives include:
- Creating a comprehensive walking, wheeling and cycling network that is coherent, direct, safe, comfortable and attractive by providing high-quality routes, improving lighting and surface quality, and reducing severance caused by busy roads and rail lines.
- Public transport improvements including better bus frequencies, improved interchanges and long-term rail enhancements, for example exploring the opportunity for a new station in Ardley.
- Supporting economic growth and innovation, harnessing opportunities to provide sustainable mobility and healthy living.
- Protecting nature and the environment, with a focus on improving public spaces and strengthening community identity.
The plan’s vision received strong support during public consultation.
Councillor Roberts added:
“This area has received several planning applications which are likely to bring enormous changes so these plans will be regularly updated to reflect this.”
The Bicester strategy forms part of 12 proposed movement and place plans across Oxfordshire, which will support the council’s wider transport connectivity programme over the coming year.
