FunParx to open at Banbury’s Castle Quay shopping centre

Banbury’s Castle Quay shopping centre is expected to get a boost as FunParx has announced it will open a new site in its vacant unit.

The site has sat empty for five years since the department store chain closed all of its shops in May 2021.

Now though, up to 50 jobs will be created as the new 50,000 sq ft play and activity zone is built, with capacity to welcome 250 visitors an hour.

An exact date for the playground’s opening has not been confirmed, though the site is expected to boast a giant inflatable arena with ball pits, ninja-style assault courses, obstacle challenges, arcade games, inflatable sports pitches, carnival-style games, and dedicated soft play zones for younger children.

A bar games area equipped with pool, air hockey, and classic games extends the appeal of FunParx to teenagers, families, and groups of friends.

The indoor fun zone is the latest phase in Castle Quay’s transformation following a £65 million regeneration.

This extensive project has seen the centre evolve from a traditional retail space into a vibrant canal-side destination blending shopping, dining, entertainment, and culture.

Offering an expansive arena for fun and games, the attraction promises a thrilling experience for everyone.

FunParx co-founder and Banbury resident Matt Tofts shared his excitement about the opening.

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Cherwell District Council is exploring options to revitalise the Banbury town centre destination (Image: Google Maps)

He said: “We are so excited to be opening in Banbury.

“This site is going to be fantastic for everyone, and we cannot wait to welcome people in to experience all the fun.”

The Waterfront and Lock29, other facets of Castle Quay, have transformed Banbury’s social scene.

They present independent food traders, restaurants, and outdoor terraces, contributing to a lively hub nestled beside the Oxford Canal.

The Light Banbury, packed with cinema, bowling, climbing, gaming, and rooftop dining, has strengthened the region’s leisure offer.

Castle Quay has also welcomed continued commitment from major national brands including Boots, Waterstones, Superdrug, The Entertainer, F Hinds, TG Jones, and Clarks, demonstrating faith in the centre’s future development.

Championed as another family-friendly attraction, FunParx is set to draw visitors to Banbury, complementing current confines like The Light and Lock29.

Additional facilities like convenient transport links, parking, EV charging facilities, and family-friendly amenities continue to affirm Castle Quay’s position as a full-day destination.

The ongoing developments offer both residents and visitors fresh reasons to savour Banbury.

Oliver Wren, Centre Director at Castle Quay, highlighted the ever-changing landscape of the retail centre, noting how Banbury Library’s relocation, and now FunParx, added to Castle Quay’s appeal.

He said: “Our vision is for Castle Quay to be a place where people come to spend time, not just shop, and FunParx will add another brilliant reason for families and young people to visit and enjoy the town centre.”

FunParx is set to open in Castle Quay.