RESIDENTS of Jericho yesterday voiced their hopes for their derelict boatyard.

Oxford City Council launched a consultation into plans for the abandoned Castle Mill Boatyard next to St Barnabas Church off Canal Street. Outdoor public space, a larger community centre, and a new connecting bridge were the priorities of residents.

Architect Simon Norris, from Belsyre Court, Jericho, said: “I would like to see a big public open space fronting the canal with some buildings on the periphery, boating facilities, shops, and also a new community centre to replace this one. “The main thing is it should be treated as a big open space which runs from the church to the canal. That will mean that the great British Oxford public will come down Cardigan Street in their hundreds and attend events.”

Jericho resident Mary Keen said: “It potentially could be marvellous if we get it right, or it could go marvellously wrong. I do think that housing is important but public space is very important. And this community centre is very heavily used so we do need somewhere larger.” A new bridge linking Jericho to the railway Station and Botley Road along the canal was also called for by numerous residents.

Oxford City Council is in the middle of creating a plan – called a Development Brief, or Supplementary Planning Document.

It is to set out what any future developer will be expected to follow.

The plan is due to go to Oxford City Council’s city executive board on September 11 for approval.