THE need for a simple facelift at Botley’s West Way precinct has metamorphosed into plans by Doric for a superstore, multiplex cinema, over 500 student flats, hotel, gymnasium and extensive parking. Adjacent and nearby areas are included in the footprint, irrespective of varied private ownership.

Doric claim to be giving Botley ‘the High Street it has never had’ — but Botley doesn’t warrant one! Compared to the populations of towns such as Abingdon (33,100), Wantage & Grove (18,000) and Faringdon (8,000), Botley has just 5,000 — a rump located just the wrong side of the A34 from Oxford city.

An online entry describes Botley as a ‘residential suburb of Oxford’ consisting of ‘central offices and a modest row of stores’. It’s not a town centre; it’s not a high street.

Beyond Retail, Redefining the Shape and Purpose of Town Centres, research arising from The Portas Report, describes three levels of shopping centres. Botley fits into the smallest of those three categories, described as “localised convenience and everyday needs-focussed centres”. Shopping habits, the report emphasises, are evolving rapidly and large retail units and centres are already becoming obsolescent.

Beyond Retail further states that: “Full engagement with the local community... is needed... (to meet) wider community-led needs.

People living in these places are more than passive consumers of plans and products, and thus must be involved in a constructive and positive way.”

Yet Doric has submitted revised plans to VOWH without contact with residents since September.

Botley wants local provision suitable for local activities and facilities for everyday needs. We want progress within reason, not pipe-dreams fuelled by greed.

RUTH CAMERON Conifer Close Botley Oxford