Evri parcel service bid at Oxford Nisa sparks support

Nisa Local in Botley Road, which opened in 2025 in the former Pickle and Lime unit, was refused permission in March 2026 for a single-storey rear extension and steel security shutter, with the city council citing overdevelopment of the already-extended building.

Proposed ground floor plan to extend new Nisan Local in Oxford’s Botley Road (Image: Virtus Design & Build)

The extra space would accommodate new services including an Evri parcel delivery point and two additional Cook Frozen Meals freezers. Plans also include moving the Costa Coffee self-service machine to the front of the shop and creating more room for Bake & Bite products and loaves from Oxford-based Natural Bread Company.

The original application drew one official comment in support and four objections, raising concerns such as parking pressure, delivery traffic and noise.

Since an appeal was lodged last month, however, supporters have mobilised to argue the changes would bring “much needed” services to West Oxford.

READ MORE: MP demands urgent action over ‘inequitable’ bus cuts

According to appeal papers, 32 “interested parties” have formally backed the challenge by shop owner Mansi Chowdhry, who runs the business independently from the national chain.

A separate informal petition has attracted 48 signatures wishing the businessman “good luck”, bringing the total number of supporters to 80.

Mrs Chowdhry says he hopes to sign a contract with Evri to provide a “much-needed parcel service for Botley Road residents”, something she believes is currently missing locally.

She said: “We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received from the local community and remain committed to serving residents in the best way possible.”