Morrisons to clean up overgrown land at Bicester store

The UK supermarket chain is working to clean up land at its Bicester store in Villiers Road, after residents raised concerns about overgrown vegetation and litter.

The issues were highlighted by local resident Jamie Jessett, who said parts of the property appeared neglected and in need of maintenance.

Concerns focused on the permeable paving area at the front of the store, where weeds have reportedly spread across much of the surface.

Morrisons Daily to clear overgrown vegetation and litter at a ‘below acceptable standards’ Oxfordshire site (Image: Jamie Jessett)

He also raised issues about the rear yard and garage area, including overgrown brambles and weeds, as well as accumulations of litter and debris.

He said: “There is a duty to keep land clear of litter and reasonably tidy and the current condition falls well below acceptable standards, affecting public safety.”

Further concerns were expressed about discarded needles, suspected drug use and anti-social behaviour in the rear area, which borders a public play area used by children and families.

“I am very concerned”, he added, “Families and their young children are leaving or entering the play area behind the shop, which is about 20 footsteps into the tree area where I found a needle in 2023. The safety of the public needs to be taken more seriously.”

The freehold of the Morrisons Daily premises is held by Alliance Property Holdings Limited, a subsidiary of Morrisons.

Responding to concerns about the site, a Morrisons spokesperson said action was already underway.

They said: “We are already working with our maintenance team to clean up the land owned by Morrisons.

“Please note that the area behind the shops is private property and strictly off-limits to the public.”