‘Significant issues’ flagged amid Oxfordshire market plan

Wantage Town Council has criticised Oxfordshire County Council’s ‘improvement’s project’ for its market place.

Published earlier this month, the county council is currently asking for feedback on its proposals which include removing car parking spaces from the area, making more space for markets and events, and new and improved bus stops.

READ MORE: Urgent business meeting on Oxfordshire market place plan

Set to be delivered in two parts, the scheme is not yet fully funded with the current  consultation open until July 8.

Reacting to it, Wantage Town Council has today (June 24) said they have “reservations”.

A spokesperson said: “Wantage Town Council welcomes the work Oxfordshire County Council (OCC) has undertaken to examine the potential public realm improvements in the Market Place.

Western part of Market Place (Image: Ed Nix)

“We remain committed to promoting enhancements which will make this vital commercial area even more attractive and accessible for residents and visitors, and where businesses can thrive.

“The final consultation version of OCC’s plans are a radical approach to delivering this, but we have reservations relating to a number of significant issues.

“In particular the impact of the proposed bus gate, the effect on bus routes, the loss of disabled and very short-term parking and the impact on businesses for delivery and collection of goods.

“Once the survey results are processed, we would ask that OCC meet with a Working Party of the Town Council in order that these concerns can be addressed with the aim of identifying a scheme that is acceptable to all.”

Gridlock fears as new town identified as ‘opportunity’ for 13,000 homes (Image: Councillor Gareth Epps)

The county council’s member for transport has previously said that the plans are not final but that the local authority wants to make Wantage Market Place a better area to spend time for shopping, leisure or business.

In addition, the council said the plans are aimed at supporting business by improving loading facilities and at encouraging sustainable travel including walking, wheeling and cycling.

Gareth Epps said: “It was wonderful that we received such a wealth of feedback and inspiration from so many people last year.

READ MORE: Major improvement plan for Oxfordshire town’s market place

“I am delighted to see how this has been realised in a draft design to support better active travel opportunities and create a vibrant, welcoming, and accessible town centre in Wantage, which is safer for residents and visitors.

“We want this plan to truly reflect local community needs and ideas, as well as support an increase in the size of the market and enable more community events.

“I am very much looking forward to hearing how people find the designs and what adjustments can be made.

“We are working hard to make sure the final designs are not only practical but also accessible for everyone.”