Have a say on revamp of centre (From Oxford Mail)

Have a say on revamp of centre

6:54pm Thursday 9th July 2009

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Three different options for the redevelopment of Bicester’s Market Square are to be put out to consultation with the public in the autumn, although details are yet to be finalised.

Oxfordshire County Council has allocated £750,000 to the project, and Cherwell district £250,000.

Planners are keen to make sure the town maintains its historic core around Sheep Street and Market Square as the area is redeveloped over the next few years.

County councillor Lawrie Stratford said: “We are looking at all options – traffic flow, more space for pedestrians, more public space – so it could be a nicer area.

“But at the same time we want to retain the convenience of short-term parking.

“One of the concerns we have was the town centre would get a bright new development and Sheep Street and Market Square might get left behind.”

Rachel Faulkner, partnership manager at Bicester Vision, said: “There has been talk about changing the look of the area for many years.

“But with the redevelopment of the town it will be important that the market square links to Sheep Street, and the new shopping areas are thought through.”

It is hoped work could start towards the end of 2010.

The move has been welcomed by the town’s chamber of commerce and retailers.

Commerce president Ben Jackson said: “The chamber wants a Market Square that is a vibrant part of a holistic town centre, as opposed to a separate unit, but also a Market Square that allows businesses to flourish and meets the needs of all those that use it.

“As the historic heart of the town it should be the focal point.

“Aesthetically, the shop fronts and general views are excellent, but perhaps it needs a bit of a complementary lift at ground level.”

Hayley Millward, of Bicester Bed Centre, said: “I welcome it being modernised and I think they should introduce a free parking scheme to entice people in.”

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