IN planning terms, it is a small step in the process. But symbolically, the submission of an outline application for the new Westgate Centre is a giant stride forward for Oxford.

The plan submitted by developers to Oxford City Council marks the beginning of the end of a long drawn out and frustrating saga.

The new Westgate – complete with a John Lewis store – is no longer just talk, it is a reality.

There is much to consider and discuss, but it looks like we are finally on our way.