Design, planning and engineering giant WSP has been appointed to develop plans to rejuvenate Bicester Market Square.
WSP will partner with Cherwell District Council to study the town centre by looking at parking, traffic flows and will consider pedestrian-friendly elements. A formal consultation will help finalise designs and plans later this year.
Earlier this year, the council’s Bicester project team took a stall at the Friday market to discuss plans with locals and feedback from that will help WSP begin its consultation.
Ian Boll, corporate director for communities, said: “We have the right partners in WSP to help rejuvenate Bicester town centre. We will work with them to continue listening to our local businesses and residents and understanding their aspirations for the market square.
“During our time at the Friday market, we heard from many who welcomed changes and from those who had concerns. We recognise the need to build on this and ensure businesses in neighbouring streets and the surrounding areas are heard.
“We recently delivered letters to businesses surrounding market square to inform them and ask them to be involved, and we hope to hear from many of them.
“We understand the importance of this regeneration project, and we will work with local businesses, residents, and the wider community to ensure we have a town centre that meets the needs of Bicester now and in the future.”
David Thompson, project director for WSP, said: “We are excited to be appointed to work with Cherwell District Council on their forward-thinking plans for Bicester Market Square. We know there is work to be done to ensure that the community is involved across the stages of this project, and we are looking forward to getting stuck in and meeting everyone who has an interest in the square.”
The regeneration project will be partly funded by £4.25 million from the council’s capital budget.
Image: Google.
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