RESIDENTS on Witney’s Madley Park housing estate fear retail space that has remained empty for about eight years could be turned into flats.

The six units at the estate’s neighbourhood centre in Northfield Farm Lane have never been occupied since they were built as part of the 1,200-home estate.

Now members of the Madley Park Residents’ Association are demanding answers about what the future holds for them as they are worried vital community amenities could be “wasted”.

Chairman David Bates said: “It’s in a perfect place for a wine bar, bistro or cafe – we don’t have anything like that.

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“It’s just languishing there and and it’s a big disappointment that we’re not benefiting from it.

“Our concern is that the longer it isn’t used, the more likely it will be turned into flats and we lose a community facility.”

A car park is next to the units, as well as the Madley Park Hall, which Mr Bates believes has been a success.

He said he has previously spoken to the landowner but has been told no businesses have been found to take over the buildings.

Mr Bates added: “It’s a surprise that they haven’t been able to find anyone to get even a moderate income.

“There’s two schools nearby so it could be popular with mums and kids.”

Witney Town Council member Chris Holliday, who lives in Harvest Way, said: “All our facilities really are in town, which poses a problem because we have to go across Bridge Street where there’s traffic issues.

“The estate has become like a village so it seems like a waste of units that we could use to develop this community better.”

Witney and District Chamber of Commerce chairwoman Lesley Semaine said the rent prices should be lowered to a more manageable level for new businesses.

She said: “It could be popular with residents if it’s the right sort of business.

“If these places have been empty for so long then why don’t they just give them a better rate for the first year and then if the business takes off they can pay the going rate?”

The letting agent, Mark Meeson of Meeson Williams Phillips, said the six units were for retail use only and added that there would need to be a change of use planning application if the units were to be turned into flats.

He said discussions have now started with one potential retailer.

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