A busy road in Banbury town centre remains closed one week after a scaffolding collapse at a building site due to ‘ongoing safety concerns’.

Cherwell Street in Banbury remains closed more than a week after a partial scaffolding collapse at a building site, with safety concerns preventing the road from reopening.

The road has been closed since midday on Wednesday, October 21, after the incident left two of the nine workers at the site needing hospital treatment.

One worker suffered head and leg injuries, while the other sustained what South Central Ambulance Service described as “severe injuries”.

Cherwell Street in Banbury remains closed to traffic one week after a scaffolding collapse that left two workers requiring hospital treatment.(Jim Smith)

placeholder image — Cherwell Street in Banbury remains closed to traffic one week after a scaffolding collapse that left two workers requiring hospital treatment.(Jim Smith)

Thames Valley Police have since confirmed they are no longer involved in the road closure or the investigation into the collapse.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the national regulator for workplace health and safety, has visited the site and confirmed it is leading the investigation.

Cllr Ian Harwood, who represents Banbury Calthorpe and Easington, has warned that the closure could continue for some time while the site is made safe.

In a social media post, Cllr Harwood said: “Many people hope the road can reopen soon, but the latest advice suggests that will not be possible yet.

“The HSE's drone survey has reportedly uncovered significant internal damage and ongoing safety concerns. Before any work can begin, the developer must submit an acceptable method statement; the HSE rejected the first version and is now awaiting a revised submission.

“As things stand, Cherwell Street should remain closed until the building is made safe and the debris is removed.

“I appreciate how disruptive this is for residents, businesses, and commuters alike, but safety comes first.”

Cllr Chris Aramini-Brant, who represents Cropredy, Sibfords and Wroxton on Cherwell District Council, said the authority and the HSE were working with the building owner to make the site safe.

He said: “I know the closure is causing disruption for many of us, including local businesses and visitors. Thank you for your continued patience while everyone involved works towards a safe resolution.

“Cherwell District Council and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are continuing to work with the building owner following the structural collapse on Cherwell Street.

“The HSE is reviewing the owner’s proposals to make the site safe and remove the collapsed materials. The road remains closed, but discussions are taking place with the Highways Authority to explore whether part of Cherwell Street could safely reopen while the work is carried out.

“My thoughts are with those who have been injured and their families and loved ones, at this very difficult time.”

The closure has caused traffic to build up, particularly in the southern and eastern parts of the town.

Businesses in the affected area have also reported a significant drop in customer numbers since the road was closed.

Sam Donaghy, who owns Sam the Flowerman on Lower Cherwell Street, told the Banbury Guardian last week that the closure was having a significant impact on his business.

He said: “It only takes one thing in Banbury and the whole pack of cards crumble. My business and Kwik Fit has been completely dead, people just can’t get in.”

Cherwell District Council has been approached for comment.