Developers behind the controversial Marriotts Close redevelopment in Witney have been told to address public concerns before plans are accepted.

West Oxfordshire district councillors have asked Lincoln-based Simons Developments to revise its proposals after problems with the size of the building, car park environment and loss of trees in the area.

A decision on the application will be delayed until these problems have been addressed.

The plan includes 13 shops, 185 homes, a cinema, a five-storey car park and public open space off Welch Way.

Meanwhile, shoppers in Witney could have two floors of new shops if planners approve a proposal to expand the town's Woolgate Centre.

Universities Superannuation Scheme Ltd (USS), which owns the complex, has submitted a planning application to the district council for a two-storey extension.

The announcement follows a council meeting about the Marriotts Close development.

Councillors deferred a decision on the application and told Simons Developments to change its plans.

WODC planning officer Phil Shaw said: "Our concern is that the scale of the building is excessively large for the location.

"There also needs to be more information provided about why the developers cannot provide affordable housing.

"The multi-storey car park interior needs to be carefully considered - we want it to be an attractive place rather than somewhere that is damp and dingy."

District councillor Brenda Smith voiced concerns about the loss of trees and Witney central ward councillor Harriet Ryley questioned the possible risks to children by positioning a public space and play area near a busy road.

Jeremy Fieldsend, spokesman for Simons Developments, said: "We are more than happy to look at comments and suggestions made and we will incorporate those into the scheme wherever possible."

Meanwhile, shoppers and retailers at the Woolgate Centre have been assured that the two-storey extension will benefit them.

Neil Hardiman, USS's development manager, said: "Several well known stores have expressed an interest and there is demand from new retailers to come to Witney, especially in the fashion sector."

It is not yet known when the application will be discussed by district councillors.