Work to transform a notorious traffic black spot near Bicester and boost growth in the town could get underway next year after the Government agreed to fund the project.

The Government has awarded £6.5 million to increase capacity at M40 Junction 9 following a bid submitted to the Highways Agency by Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership, with support from the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership, Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council. The county council will submit up to a further £2million for the project.

All partners are delighted with the successful outcome which will relieve a well-known traffic bottleneck and support further expansion and jobs-led growth in Bicester.

Catalyst for growth

Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport Rodney Rose said: “Increasing capacity at M40 Junction 9 will be a real catalyst for the future development of the town and we’re delighted the Government has acknowledged the pressing need for investment.

“The junction is also a key location on the motorway network which means the positive impact of the improvements will be felt across the whole country.

“We will continue to work with our public and private sector partners towards realising our shared vision for the future of Bicester.”

Great potential

Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership Chairman Adrian Shooter said: “Bicester is already home to some 30,000 people and boasts the internationally renowned Bicester Village Outlet Centre which attracts more than 5.5 million visitors a year.

“However the town has even greater potential for sustainable economic growth and it has been clear for some time that tackling congestion at Junction 9 would remove a significant obstacle to reaching that potential.”

Cllr Barry Wood, leader of Cherwell District Council said: “I am delighted that the much needed improvements to Junction 9 have been given the go ahead. The news is good not only for drivers, but for the local economy as it will enable Bicester to attract a wide range of quality businesses which in turn will provide employment for local people.”