The first of a series of engagement events on the public realm enhancement project for Bicester Market Square took place last week.

With its regeneration and public realm consultant WSP, the event attracted many local town centre businesses who shared their insights, aired their concerns, and began collaborating with the project team.

The event was organised by Cherwell District Council and took place on Thursday, July 11.

The council said the event involved discovering how businesses use Market Square and what they felt was needed to transform the space into a more attractive, accessible, and user-friendly area for businesses, residents, and visitors.

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Councillor Lesley McLean, deputy leader of the council and responsible for regeneration, said: “We are keen to work closely with our local businesses to make Bicester an attractive destination, supporting the local economy and creating space for the community.

"This project requires an inclusive vision, and the input received from both the business and wider community is invaluable in guiding this process.”

Ian Boll, corporate director of communities and David Thompson, project director for WSP, said: "Our joint goal is to create a dynamic and inclusive space that reflects the unique character of Bicester.

"Engaging with local businesses is crucial to understanding the needs of those who work here.

"We are grateful to local businesses for their constructive feedback and look forward to developing ideas from the event."

Graham, owner of Dragonflyframing said: "The event was a great opportunity for us to voice our opinions and hear about the transformational approach to Market Square first hand.

"It’s so important that local businesses and residents are engaged, and their views recorded and considered, so that any improvements to Market Square fulfil and enhance business needs and give the town opportunities to maintain its character and purpose and attract more visitors to the area."

The council said the initial ideas behind Market Square are at a very early stage.

More informal engagement with businesses and community groups is planned over the summer with dates currently being finalised. 

During September, additional engagement events will gather insights from cycling, walking, and vulnerable user groups.

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There will also be an event for all stakeholders and residents interested in Market Square, and drop-in sessions to engage with the project team, learn more and provide additional feedback.

The council said it will use the planned engagement activities to help form the design proposals and shape what improvements could be made to Market Square.

The council said the project will offer more opportunities for a ’café culture’, events and complementary market stalls to the main market on Sheep Street.

The council says its goal is to encourage residents and visitors to enjoy Bicester town centre and support businesses and the local economy.