Welch Way closed until the end of October (From Witney Gazette)

Welch Way closed until the end of October

3:49pm Monday 14th July 2008 in Witney By David Horne

A TOWN centre road in Witney is closed possibly until the end of October.

It is an essential part of the new Marriotts Close development, involving mains and sewage pipes, as well as anti-flood drainage works.

Welch Way is closed as a through route to and from the junction with High Street, with traffic diverted via Woodford Way.

Temporary public toilets have also been installed near the fire station and magistrates court to replace those shut down on the opposite side of the road.

David Harvey, West Oxfordshire District Council cabinet member for the environment, said the closure was timed to coincide with the school holidays, when traffic volume decreases, and after the Witney Carnival, held on Saturday.

"I am hopeful it will be finished a lot sooner than October 31, but we had to play safe with the road closure order to ensure the work is done.

"It is important, and includes a flood alleviation scheme to prevent surface water building up at the junction of Welch Way and High Street."

The £50m redevelopment of the former football ground and public car park is taking shape on the skyline, with metal framework in place up to three storeys high.

It is scheduled to open in autumn 2009 with a range of shops, including a Marks & Spencer and Debenhams, as well as multi-screen cinema, cafes, and restaurant.