RESIDENTS and traders in Botley will find out more about the much anticipated redevelopment of their 1960s shopping centre next week.

Vale of White Horse District Council staff will be explaining the progress of plans to redevelop the Westway Shopping Centre at a public meeting.

Last February, the council announced the Elms Court site was up for sale and it would use the cash generated to revamp the dated shopping arcade.

But shopkeepers and residents have been waiting nearly a year for further news on the revamp.

The Elms court site is expected to be headed by a major retailer and the scheme is likely to involve knocking down and replacing the community facilities, including Botley Library, at Seacourt Hall.

Botley Baptist Church will also be relocated off-site in suitable alternative premises.

Kate El-Barhdadi, who runs the Rococo café, welcomed the meeting, but admitted: “There is a lot of hearsay but not much information.

“It needs doing because it doesn’t reflect or enhance the local community.”

Elaine Ware, cabinet member for economy at the district council, said: “The Westway is an important community hub for the people of Botley and the local area, which means it’s crucial that we hear the views of local residents.

“Hopefully plenty of people will attend the meeting or take part in the forthcoming consultation so there can be a positive and constructive conversation on how we can help bring a new lease of life to the area.”

A questionnaire will be available at the meeting for residents to give their thoughts about the development.

Eric Batts, councillor for North Hinksey and Wytham, said: “Westway is in need of renovation.

“This is the beginning of a very important process for the future of our area and I urge people to get involved so we can ensure we make the best decisions.”

The area is also awaiting a £15m revamp of the Seacourt Retail Park.

North Hinksey Parish Council is hosting the meeting at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, in West Way, at 7.30pm next Wednesday.

An online survey being launched next Wednesday will be available until March 28 at whitehorsedc.gov.uk/ haveyoursay. Residents can also call 01235 547614 to request a paper copy.