MAJOR expansion plans by outlet shopping centre Bicester Village and Tesco have been approved.

This evening at a meeting of Cherwell District Council two separate but co-ordinated planning applications received unanimous approval.

The decision paves the way for the supermarket opening a new expanded store opposite its current position off the A41, and Bicester Village opening 30 new shops in its place.

It could also lead to £11m in road improvements on the A41, Oxford Road and Pingle Drive in a move that would cut chronic congestion at peak times.

The multi-million pound plans are also estimated to create up to 3,500 new jobs.

Chris Harris, of Bicester Village, said its expansion plan will open up quality jobs and significant road changes to tackle congestion.