A GROUP has promised to be the “eyes and ears” of the Botley community following the publication of details of almost £1m worth of funding from developers.

Dr Mary Gill, co-chairwoman of West Way Community Concern, said it would continue to liaise with developers, Mace, throughout the re-development of West Way Shopping Centre.

Having won a campaign in December 2014 to get the original plans for the site thrown out, Dr Gill said the group will continue to make sure the residents’ voices are heard.

She said: “As this information has only just been made publicly available people have not had time to look at it or digest it.

“But I’m sure the group will have a meeting and we will be keeping a very close eye on the developers to make sure they deliver all the conditions set out in this agreement.

“As I have said before we are here to be what the community needs. We are their eyes and ears, and we want to keep the channels open with Mace.”

Three months ago planning permission was granted for Mace’s redevelopment of the West Way Shopping Centre in Botley.

Finally the district council sent out a public notice on Friday with details of the financial contributions Mace will make to the town.

Almost £3m, including a £2m contribution to affordable housing in the district, will be given to the community as Section 106 funds.

More than £400,000 has been set aside for both Matthew Arnold School and Botley Primary School to pay for their expansions.

Money will also be given to help improve cycling routes in Botley, £180,000, £36,305 will be spent on creating a new toucan crossing on the sit and a further £52,000 will go towards bus shelters.

Although money has been earmarked for Oxford Rugby Club and Closes Field in Cumnor some residents were surprised not to see the Louie Memorial Playing Fields on the list.

North Hinksey Parish Council did not make an application for the much-needed facility because they had been advised not to.

Alan Stone, parish council clerk, said: “We had discussions with Vale and one of the officers told us that because the developer would be funding the new community hub in North Hinksey, which would include a new community hall, they would not be willing to put any further Section 106 money for us.

“We would have jumped at the chance otherwise but we were advised not to.”

The development, which also includes 261 student flats, 123-bed hotel and 140 residential flats, is estimated to be worth a market value of £125m.