'We will fight Westgate plans' (From Oxford Mail)

'We will fight Westgate plans'

9:19pm Thursday 28th February 2008 in

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More than 70 people opposing plans to redevelop Oxford's Westgate shopping centre, gathered in the city's Town Hall tonight to discuss ways to fight the developers.

The campaign group Oxford against Westgate Redevelopment is looking to target John Lewis, which is planning a store as part of the already-approved £150m development.

Campaigners are planning a mass postal campaign which will see them bombarding the company with postcards. They claim the development will increase the risk of flooding, add to city centre congestion and increase air pollution.

Protesters discussed alternative proposals for the site, including a more environmental-friendly refit of the existing shopping centre.

Jess Worth, from Iffley Road, Oxford, said: "We don't just want to be against the development, but want to get a different kind of development for Oxford."

Bruce Heagerty, who spent three days up a tree in Norfolk Street to protest at the removal of trees, said: "Protesting is great. But coming up with a good idea for the site is even better."