WORK could start on the £2.1m pedestrianisation of Parson’s Street and Market Place as early as next month.

Four contractors have made it to the shortlist and a decision over which firm gets the job is expected by the end of June. Special work stoppages will be built into the timetable to cater for the Michaelmas Fair and Christmas shopping. Construction work will stop for the fair in October and then again between November 27 and January 5.

Plans include pedestrian priority, new paving, better car parking in Market Place, new street furniture including seating and litter bins, better facilities for the market and other events, the introduction of public art and the removal of unwanted signs and clutter.

The road from the south west corner of Market Place and along Parson’s Street will be closed to traffic between 10am and 4.30pm, but there will be a designated loading bay in Market Place and disabled drivers’ parking.

Cherwell District Council, which is leading the project, said the move would revitalise the area, but some businesses are concerned strict delivery restrictions will affect trade.

James McIntyre, manager at Buywise in Parson’s Street, has concerns over the construction phase and access. He said: “It will be good when it is done. But in between time, during these hard times we are going through, it’s how long it takes, we don’t want it to drag on.”

Pat Dibb, of the Cornish Pasty and Tea Shop, Market Place, said she had concerns as she had food delivered throughout the day.

She said: “We still have concerns about access because we are dealing with food. We have been to see the council to try to get some sort of dispensation.”

Mrs Dibb said there were also issues about access on market days as the car park would not be available to cut through.

District councillor Norman Bolster, executive member for economic development and estates, said: “Pedestrianisation of Parson’s Street has been an aim of the council for some time, to make it easier for shopping access. The way it’s being planned, we hope to do it with the minimum of disruption to traders and shoppers.”

An information event for businesses and residents affected by the work is due to take place at Cherwell’s headquarters at Bodicote House on July 7. The overhaul is expected to be completed by next June.

Last year, when the pedestrianisation scheme was unveiled proposals included traffic free areas between 10am and 4.30pm, and 8pm and 1am every day in Parson’s Street and Cornhill.

After complaints from businesses and residents, the plan went to a public inquiry.

Later, a planning inspector ruled the proposal could go ahead, but evening traffic restrictions were dropped.