RESIDENTS of an Oxford estate were last night asked how to spend a £450,000 windfall to improve facilities.

The money comes from developer Taylor Wimpey, which is building 254 new homes in Rose Hill to replace 103 post-war prefabricated houses.

Community leaders urged residents to visit Saturday’s public consultation, called Your Neighbourhood, Your Views, and have their say.

The cash can be used to improve buildings and facilities, but not finance new large-scale developments.

Lifelong Rose Hill resident Tracey Forsyth, who works at the estate’s children’s centre, said the money could be vital.

She said: “It’s so important that people have their say, because if they don’t, the decision could be taken out of our hands.

“The money belongs to the community and it should be spent on the things that will benefit people on the estate.

“I think there are some buildings that could be improved, but I would also like to see it spent on things like sporting facilities and dance classes.”

Her colleague Leeann O’Callaghan, who volunteers at the centre, said: “This opportunity does not come along very often, so we need to make the most of it. It’s exciting because there are so many good things which the money could be spent on.”

The Rose Hill Regeneration Partnership, made up of residents, community groups, Oxford Citizens Housing Association, Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council and councillors, is running the meeting in Norman Brown Hall.

The money was made available under a Section 106 agreement. The legally binding agreements oblige landowners and developers to contribute to council works and services.

Rose Hill community worker Fran Gardner said: “People on the estate feel, quite rightly, that things often happen without full consultation.

“It is absolutely clear that people here should be given every opportunity to have their say. It is crucial for people to come along, otherwise it will be a struggle to correctly put their ideas across.”

Information provided by residents will be included in a report that will go to the partnership and the south east area committee in the new year.

Refreshments will be available at the meeting, as well as a creche and activities to keep kids entertained. It runs from noon to 2.30pm.

Antonia Bance, a city councillor for Rose Hill, said: “This is a great opportunity to improve facilities and there is money available that can be used to help improve community life in Rose Hill.”

Anyone who cannot attend the meeting can still have their say by completing a questionnaire in Rose Hill News or by attending a forthcoming group discussion.

For more information, call Mrs Gardner on 07770 324277.