BUSES are back in Queen Street as a crunch decision over whether they will eventually be banned from the street gets ever closer.

The Department for Transport has had to intervene after the city's two major bus operators objected to the ban.

Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach said that without a turning circle elsewhere it would lead to longer bus journeys and more congestion.

Oxfordshire County Council approved an experimental 18-month ban in July but because it was unable to come to a resolution with the bus firms, the Government will now decide.

The DfT decision could be made by the end of the month but the council has admitted it may not be decided before the Westgate opening on October 24.

In absence of a decision buses will continue through the street as normal on the opening day.