Warnings have emerged regarding potential gridlock on Botley Road following its imminent reopening to traffic.
The route has functioned as a cul-de-sac near the railway station since Network Rail commenced bridge reconstruction activities.
Access to Oxford’s city centre from Botley Road is scheduled to resume on September 20.
The thoroughfare would become the sole available approach to the Westgate shopping centre’s parking facility for vehicles seeking to avoid the proposed traffic filter zones.
City and county councillor Susanna Pressel expressed concerns that significant volumes of traffic could materialise once the road reopens.
Local residents are particularly anxious that implementation of the new traffic filter system would result in severe congestion, as Botley Road would provide the primary access to both the Westgate car park and railway station without traversing a filter.
Ms Pressel revealed she had lobbied county council officers extensively to alter the proposed scheme to prevent exacerbating congestion issues previously experienced on the route.
However, officials determined that repositioning the filters in alternative locations would prove unworkable.
Council officers have sought to reassure the councillor by contending that congestion levels are unlikely to surpass historical figures and could potentially improve.
Their assessment suggests most traffic previously using Botley Road would instead utilise Hythe Bridge Street or Oxpens.
Under the traffic filter arrangements, general vehicular access would face restrictions.
Officers additionally anticipate that numerous drivers would seek alternative routes through the city to reach Westgate using parking permits, while others would transition to bus services or cycling.
The Westgate complex now offers complimentary home delivery, which officials believe would further reduce vehicle demand.
Ms Pressel expressed cautious optimism regarding these projections, noting the traffic filter scheme would operate as a trial with comprehensive monitoring of its effects.
She indicated that modifications could be applied should congestion on Botley Road exceed previous levels.
Oxford Bus Company stated that accurately forecasting the traffic situation upon Botley Road’s reopening presented considerable difficulty.
A spokesperson indicated the operator was preparing extensively to accommodate service adjustments coinciding with the road’s reopening on September 20.
Additional cross-city connections would be introduced, and passengers were advised to consult the company’s website for comprehensive information regarding service modifications and schedule changes.
Given the extended closure period, predicting precise traffic conditions remained challenging, though regular dialogue with relevant authorities was being maintained.
Stagecoach declined to provide comment when approached.