HIGH street retailers, flood-lit sports pitches and parking were key points raised by about 160 residents at consultations on the new retail project proposed for Oxford Road sports ground.

The Bicester Sports Association hosted the consultations in Chesterton and Market Square last month and has said it was now considering feedback for further plans.

The project will move all sports facilities from Oxford Road in Bicester to the BSA site in Chesterton and replace to existing Bicester sports grounds with a new retail development.

Bicester Sports Association chairman Tony Allen said: "These public consultation events are a key part of wider consultation that we are currently undertaking, which includes the sports clubs using our facilities.

"We recognise that there is some reluctance to see facilities relocated from Oxford Road and we are carefully considering how we make the new sports hub accessible.

"These proposals would enable us to invest significantly in local sports facilities, improving and protecting future sports provision, which we would otherwise be unable to do."

The main points the BSA said were raised by the public included residents wanting to see more high street brands in the town, restaurants and communal space.

It also said feedback on the new sports hub being developed at Chesterton found key points included improved social and changing facilities, more parking needed and floodlit grass pitches.

Issues regarding local transport to the site and the impact are also being considered in the development.

Once revised plans are complete they will put out to residents for consultation again before planning is hoped to be put to Cherwell District Council by the end of the year.