LAKESIDE lodges, off-road driving and fine dining will be among the draws at a ‘landmark’ new ‘automotive resort’ in Bicester.
Historic motoring hub Bicester Heritage has revealed its major expansion plans to create 'the country’s first automotive resort' Bicester Motion – hoped to become one of the UK’s top 20 tourist spots.
Plans include creating a place for visitors to embrace all things motoring and aviation, as well as leisure activities such as a cafe, restaurant, hotel and lodges.
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Owners hope to build on the work they have already undertaken in redeveloping the former Second World War bomber station since taking it on in 2013.
Previous to this, RAF Bicester had been left mothballed and neglected for the best part of 40 years and was dubbed the most ‘at risk’ of all Defence Estates in the UK - a title it has now shaken.
Bicester Heritage took on the site and brought it back to life, albeit in keeping with its 1930s history, and now has 40 motoring businesses.
Bicester Heritage chief executive Dan Geoghegan said: “Bicester Motion will enable both new and existing manufacturers to interact more effectively with clientele. It will help build relationships in a revolutionary way by providing an immersive experience beyond just cars on tracks or showroom visits.
“The automotive world is changing, and we plan to offer a first-of-its-kind resort with a multi-generational appeal.”
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The Bicester Motion masterplan will be 444 acres in total, an additional 20 acres on the current site.
It is expected to include a ‘brand experience centre’ for driving experiences for all ages, a driver training academy, restaurant, and cafe.
There will also be a reserve which includes a 'health and wellbeing zone' with a country park and lake-side lodges.
This, alongside the approved plans for a 344-room hotel and conference centre, and engineering, workshops and showrooms.
See bicesterheritage.co.uk
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