Work has started on a multi-million pound revamp of Witney's Woolgate Shopping Centre.

The work, due to be finished by June next year, will add 23,500 sq ft of new shopping space, and started shortly before the town's new Marriott's development opened last month (see above).

Owners Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) has signed a deal with fashion retailer Next to occupy the majority of the extension.

It will also provide a larger two-storey store for household goods retailer Cargo, and accommodation for another shop — the name of which has not yet been revealed.

USS development manager Neil Hardiman said: "We are delighted we are able to provide improved accom-modation for Cargo, a longstanding tenant, and bring Next to Witney.

"Both stores will, I am sure, play a key role in attracting shoppers to the town.

"An enhanced Woolgate Shopping Centre has the potential to boost town centre trade as a whole because of its location at the heart of Witney."

Existing traders reacted positively to the news.

Michael Lynes, owner of Michael Lynes Jewellers, said: "It shows a considerable amount of confidence in the centre.

"Certainly the footfall the centre gets is huge and I see why they need to extend it.

"The centre is unusual in that it still has a number of independent shops, whereas most shopping centres are made up of multiples. But we need to attract people of different ages and styles.”

Martin Quinn, manager of Kodak Express, said: "It is very encouraging, considering the type of retail outlets coming in. It will be a boost for the centre."