HUNDREDS are expected to turn out for a decision on a proposed £100m redevelopment of Botley’s West Way shopping centre.

More than 1,200 objections have been sent to the Vale of White Horse District council since the plans, twice amended, were first submitted a year ago .

Doric Properties and Mace want to demolish Field House sheltered accommodation, 1930s Elms Parade shop frontage and surrounding shops for a supermarket, gym, hotel, six-screen cinema, community hall, library, health centre, 50 flats and 525 student rooms.

The doors of the Guildhall in Abingdon are due to open at 5.30pm, an hour before the planning committee meeting begins.

Vale Council leader Matthew Barber said: “We are expecting a large turnout from both sides. I wouldn’t like to call it . I know my colleagues on the planning committee will assess everything and call it on its merits.

“The council has entered into a legal agreement with Doric but it is their planning application. If it is successful then we will look to implement these plans and how is best to do that.

“If planning permission isn’t successful we will be looking to see if Doric will appeal. We will still need to find the right solution for the West Way shopping centre which is right at the heart of the Botley community.”

You can follow the meeting with our live blog which will be running from 6pm.

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