TRADERS in Oxford fear a big supermarket chain could buy up a neighbouring plot and put them out of business.

Vale of White Horse District Council wants to sell the plot next to West Way Shopping Centre, in Botley, to a developer or major retailer in a bid to revitalise the area.

The council also wants to revamp the 1960s shopping precinct.

Last night, plans to sell the two-acre adjacent site prompted a mixed reaction from traders and shoppers.

Andy Brock, of Brock Butchers in Elms Parade, said: “The local council do not appear to care about local businesses around here. They are trying to attract a major retailer, so that means an Asda or something.

“The small traders will have had it. It will affect me big time.”

Clive Lorton, owner of Pets on Parade in Elms Parade, said: “The area desperately needs it but I do not know what it will do to trade for the rest of us.

“It will probably get taken over by a big supermarket, which is not good business for small traders such as myself.”

However, other businesses welcomed the news.

David Tompkins, owner of David Tompkins Independent Estate Agents, which is opposite the site, said: “I have worked in the precinct for 30 years and it does need a major facelift. It looks a bit sorry for itself.

“It needs bringing up to compete with all the other shopping centres in Oxford. We are certainly paying enough by our rates, so let’s get something back in return.”

Lynn Jerrams, manager at the Sue Ryder charity shop, said: “It will be good as it will bring more shoppers. It will also be great as it is a bit of an eyesore and it is all quite rundown around here.”

The site is currently home to Botley Baptist Church, Seacourt Hall and Botley Library.

The church is already planning to relocate, and a replacement for community facility Seacourt Hall would be provided in the new development.

So too would Botley Library, although Oxfordshire County Council is planning to axe its funding.

Melissa Norridge, assistant manager of Jason’s Flowers in Elms Parade, said: “If they build it as another shopping area it would mean more business for us. But it is strange they would want to develop more shops close to the city centre.”

Gary Walker, owner of Botley Barbers in Elms Parade, said the development could be good or bad depending on which retailer moved in.

He added: “But it definitely needs something to give it oomph.”

Tony de Vere, leader of the Liberal Democrat-run council, said: “I suspect there is always a nervousness from smaller retailers when a large retailer like a supermarket comes into the area.

“My view is it is much better to have them in the tent, so to speak, as it draws people in, and it is a real opportunity for local retailers to distinguish themselves and differentiate themselves from the large stores.”

The council has had a share in the site for 10 years and has been working with other owners to secure a revamp. Property agents are marketing the area and taking suggestions from retailers and developers.