AN APPEAL against a unanimous decision to reject a £100m redevelopment of Botley’s West Way shopping centre has been withdrawn.

Developers Doric Properties has withdrawn its appeal and proposals for smaller-scale development will be put forward later this year.

The move means the initial proposals to flatten Elms Parade and surrounding buildings for a supermarket, hotel, cinema, gym, library, 50 flats and 525 student rooms will definitely not happen.

More than 1,200 people objected to the controversial plans.

According to Vale of White Horse District Council any new development would leave Elms Parade, Field House sheltered accommodation and the Vicarage of St Peter and St Paul’s Church untouched.

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Co-developer Mace has now taken the lead on the project and Vale council has agreed to extend the contract with it to redevelop the shopping centre, working closely with the community.

Council leader Matthew Barber said: “We are very pleased that new proposals for a smaller-scale development of the West Way will be put forward.

“The needs of local people are paramount to the success of any development so it’s vital that they are involved in the process and are able to feel positive about any changes that will happen in their area.

“The withdrawal of the planning appeal is a great step forward which means we can now move forward together in a spirit of collaboration to bring about a redevelopment of West Way that local people can be really proud of.”