A TRADING estate in Bicester will be demolished to make way for Bicester Village offices after councillors give plans the go-ahead.

The designer shopping outlet, Value Retail, is currently undergoing expansion plans to introduce more than 30 new shops.

This has meant staff are currently working in temporary buildings, but the latest approval will see the administrative side of the business moved to McKay Trading Estate in London Road.

Cherwell District Council lead member for planning Colin Clarke said: “This application is all about making better use of an existing employment site to create more jobs within the same area.

"The existing buildings and units comprise a combination of warehouse, office and leisure uses, most of which have already made arrangements to relocate elsewhere.

"By providing purpose-built office space in place of the current buildings this is likely to provide a higher rate of employment per square metre than the existing business uses and lead to the provision of new jobs."

The 52,000sq ft site currently houses several community organisations such as The Fitness Company, Sobell House Hospice's charity warehouse and upcycle enterprise Bicester Green.

This application is to demolish five buildings on part of the site and build one office in its place.

The approval came with the condition that no access would be allowed between the site and Bicester Village.

Mr Clarke added: "Aside from the economic developments, the proposal provides the opportunity to demolish functional but unattractive industrial units and replace them with a higher quality, energy efficient structure which will boost the quality and appearance of the area.

"Furthermore, the location of the site lends itself well to sustainable travel options as it is opposite the Bicester Village railway station and close to the town centre which is well served by buses."

Councillors have said that many of the current tennants which are coming to the end of their leases have found new locations.

Among other organisations, upcycle initiative Bicester Green are still working with Value Retail about its future base, but staff say they are hopeful that if it has to move they will stay within Bicester.