WORK on the £50m second phase of Didcot’s Orchard shopping centre could start within months after it was backed by councillors.

The scheme, pictured, will feature 24 new shops, including an M&S food store, three new public spaces, a gym, and six restaurants, bringing an estimated 500 jobs.

The plans by developer Hammerson were approved by South Oxfordshire District Council’s planning committee at a meeting at Didcot civic hall on Wednesday night.

Council leader John Cotton said: “I’m glad Hammerson has got the green light.

“People across Didcot and the surrounding villages understand the value these new shops, cafes and gym will bring to the town and everyone can now look forward to the opening date in 2017.

“I will continue to press Hammerson for improvements to the car parking and I will carry on looking for a better to route for buses.”

Phase one of the centre was built in 2005 and now Hammerson has planning permission to create the long-awaited second phase.

The plans include a controversial proposal to re-route buses from Didcot Parkway to the shopping centre via Station Road.