Motorists have reported gridlocked traffic across Banbury during busy periods, blaming the closure on Cherwell Street and the subsequent diversions.

Drivers have taken to social media to complain about significant delays and gridlocked traffic across Banbury during busy periods since the northbound lane on Cherwell Street was closed.

Cherwell Street was initially closed last month following a scaffolding collapse at a nearby building site which left two workers seriously injured.

Several residential streets in Banbury have been hit by gridlocked traffic as motorists use them as rat runs to avoid the Cherwell Street closure. The unexpected closure of Wykham Park Academy this morning following a power failure added to the disruption, with many commuters facing further delays on their journeys to work. | Submitted Image

placeholder image — Several residential streets in Banbury have been hit by gridlocked traffic as motorists use them as rat runs to avoid the Cherwell Street closure. The unexpected closure of Wykham Park Academy this morning following a power failure added to the disruption, with many commuters facing further delays on their journeys to work. | Submitted Image

The road partially reopened in both directions on October 30 after Cherwell District Council deemed it safe to do so.

However, following complaints from bus companies about lengthy delays, the section between George Street and Bridge Street become southbound-only on Wednesday (November 11).

Oxfordshire County Council introduced an alternative route, asking drivers to follow a diversion via George Street, Marlborough Road, Horse Fair and North Bar Street.

However, the decision has proved unpopular with some motorists, who say they have faced lengthy delays and gridlocked traffic since the restrictions were introduced.

One resident described the situation as a ‘traffic nightmare’ and urged as many people as possible to write to the council’s highways team and Banbury MP Sean Woodcock to demand action.

Others complained that the closure had resulted in drivers using residential streets as rat runs to get across the town centre.

One resident said: “It’s causing chaos. People are going up Britannia Road and Prospect Street to get ahead of the queue!”

Another said: “It's disgusting! What about all the carers who visit homes all around Banbury? They are all going to be delayed and will have less time to spend with their clients.”

Oxfordshire County Council has been asked to clarify how long the Cherwell Street restrictions are expected to remain in place, whether the date listed online is accurate, and whether any changes to the current diversions are being considered in response to residents' concerns about congestion.