CONSERVATIVE councillors in Banbury have promised improvements to safety and more affordable homes as part of their manifesto for next month's local elections.

The group has also pledged to encourage more businesses to set up in the town centre, as well as promoting the area as a growing tourist and shopping destination.

Banbury Conservatives leader Kieron Mallon said: "We can be proud of what the district and town councils have achieved for Banbury and its residents in recent years.

"We have frozen their proportion of residents' council tax bills consistently over the past six years despite rebuilding Spiceball Leisure Centre and refurbishing Woodgreen and the open air pool.

"Our promises also include redeveloping brownfield sites into low-cost housing, revamping every play park in the town and improving local services to the highest-level of customer satisfaction ever.

He added: "We are committed to being at the forefront of improved and positive change across our community.

"We are passionate about Banbury and strongly believe in what it has to offer."

Last month the area's Labour Party put forward their manifesto, which included increasing free car parking in Banbury and Bicester, and continuing their opposition to fracking.

All Cherwell District Council and Banbury Town Council seats will be up for election on May 5.