More than £570m is being lined up for investment in Bicester during 2007 - making it one of the most important years in the town's history.

The plans include two large housing developments, a revamped centre and an expanded Bicester Village. David Simpson, president of Bicester Chamber of Commerce, said: "£571m is a lot of money. 2007 is the start of the change.

"It's something that's going to affect everyone in the town - whether you're young or old."

The £423m south-west development looks set to change the map of Bicester with 1,585 houses and three schools on land off Middleton Stoney Road.

Although the project has yet to win planning permission, the land is already earmarked for housing. In the town centre, a £70m redevelopment project promises a six-screen cinema, Sainsbury's store, and 25 new shops and restaurants. A new library, a civic centre and a multi-storey car park are also part of the project.

A £20m expansion of Bicester Village, including 29 new shops and a two-storey car park, is due to get under way over the next few months. Work on a £4m shopping parade in Buckingham Road is also due to begin.