Oxford's Market Street has reopened following work on several pedestrian-friendly improvements.

The significant revamp by the Oxford City Council includes developments like upgraded surfaces, wider footways, fresh cycle racks and additional outdoor seating.

New plantings have been added to support the Covered Market and attract more visitors.

The alterations also include the reduction in the number of loading bays available, coupled with increased monitoring of parking rules, and rearrangement of the remaining bays to bolster safety and use the existing space more efficiently.

The flexibility to temporarily shut the street for events, markets or other utilisation has been provided to make the most of the public realm enhancements for a larger crowd.

Councillor Susan Brown, leader of Oxford City Council and Cabinet Member for inclusive economy and partnerships has said: "Spring has finally arrived and I’m so pleased to see the transformation of Market Street complete in time to enjoy it! 

“The new layout is already proving popular with residents and visitors and I hope that as more people use the new space, it will become the extension and gateway to the Covered Market and other local businesses that we hope. 

“We’re interested to hear from people about how they find the changes in order to shape future plans, so please do take the time to feedback.” 

Oxfordshire County Council's Experimental Traffic Regulation Order helped to deliver the improvements.

The overall work was handled by the Council’s direct services company ODS, aided by a £50,000 boost from Oxfordshire County Council.

The design for these improvements brought to life by Urban Movement took into account feedback from several stakeholders, traffic surveys and thorough safety audit processes.

The endeavour of making improvements in Market Street is a part of the wider vision for enhancing the Covered Market's facilities including adding additional cycle parking and refurbishment or possible relocation of the toilet block.

The trial will be monitored and open for the public and stakeholders to review for the next 18 months.

Any decision about permanently maintaining the alterations will only follow a formal consultation and would be influenced by its outcome.