Traders believe Bicester's weekly Friday market will be regenerated when it is moved into the pedestrian precinct in the town centre.

After years of debate and negotiations, Cherwell district councillors have finally agreed traders can move from Market Square into the Sheep Street precinct.

The move, which will be made in the autumn, will mean the market is safer for shoppers as they will not have to cross a road to reach the stalls.

In addition the transfer will free-up about 30 short stay car parking spaces in Market Square on Fridays.

Richard Gould, chairman of Bicester Market Traders, said: "We welcome the move as it will definitely help trade and improve the market. It will be safer for shoppers as some grumble at having to cross over roads to reach the stalls. We hope it will mean more traders will come to the market as it will be more attractive."

Mr Gould, who runs a picture framing stall, added that when the market moved into the precinct once a year to make way for the August fun fair, the transfer worked well.

David Simpson, chairman of Bicester and District Chamber of Commerce, said: "We have supported the move from the start as we believe it will regenerate the market. It will also be safer for shoppers as they will not have to cross traffic to reach the stalls."

Andrew Fulljames, Cherwell's portfolio holder for property and regenerations schemes, said: "I welcome the decision. Strong support from Bicester Town Council, the Chamber of Commerce and market traders continues to be given. Pedestrian safety is paramount and the move will free up additional parking on Fridays. I look forward to the orders being published and formal consent being obtained so that the work can take place as soon as possible."