Major Roadworks Begin on the A34
Starting today, the A34 will undergo significant changes as major roadworks commence and are expected to continue until December 2026. This follows recent closures near the Berkshire border that were recently reopened over the past two weekends. National Highways has announced a series of improvements that will span more than a year, with some work extending into winter 2026.
Two separate projects are set to take place between Marcham Interchange at Abingdon and just north of the Abingdon north slip road. The first phase of work is scheduled to begin on Monday, July 7, and is anticipated to be completed by late September. This project involves repairing the embankment and upgrading the safety barrier along the southbound verge.
During this period, drivers can expect narrow lanes and a 50mph speed limit during the day. Both lanes will remain open throughout the day. However, there will be full closures of the A34 southbound overnight, from 8pm to 6am each night. Traffic affected by these closures will be diverted via the A415, A4183, Hinksey Hill, and Oxford Road.
National Highways emphasized that the reduced speed limit is in place for safety reasons while the work is ongoing. Following this initial phase, a 15-month Lodge Hill project will commence, which is expected to last until December 2026, or approximately 17 months in total.
This second phase will also involve a 50mph speed limit and narrower lanes, just wide enough for lorries to pass safely. The southbound restrictions will cover the area between just north of the Bagley Wood Road overbridge and before the Marcham Road Interchange. Meanwhile, the northbound changes will apply between the Wooton Road underbridge and just north of the Lodge Hill Interchange.
A National Highways spokesperson noted that while the improvements are local authority initiatives, the work is partially managed by the organization due to its responsibility for the slip roads. Lanes will be reduced in width, with lane one measuring 3.25 metres and lane two at 2.75 metres. Typically, the lanes on the A34 are 3.5 metres wide to accommodate all vehicles, including lorries.
All laybys along the affected stretch of the A34 will be closed for the duration of the restrictions.
Local concerns have been raised about the potential for increased congestion. Independent county councillor David Henwood, who serves as the shadow cabinet member for transport management, expressed concerns that the lane reductions will “undoubtedly cause tailbacks and yet more congestion.” He suggested that a 60mph speed limit would be “far more sensible.”
However, deputy county council leader and ward councillor for Abingdon south, Neil Fawcett, stressed the importance of safety for the workers involved in the project. He highlighted that safety remains a top priority during the entire duration of the roadworks.
