Boost for town development plans

Plans to redevelop Bicester town centre look likely to go ahead after the supermarket chain Sainsbury's increased its stake in the £70m project.

The scheme, which includes plans for restaurants, a cinema and library, had stalled in the economic downturn.

The supermarket has bought out the interest of property company, Stockdale Land, in return for exclusivity to protect its investment.

It is hoped work on the scheme will start later this year.

Sainsbury's is working on the project along with Cherwell District Council.

"The agreement will be another step forward on a path that is understandably difficult given the current economic climate," Councillor Norman Bolster said.

"This is an ambitious scheme and an important development for the future prosperity of Bicester town centre, so we are determined to make it happen."

Chris Templeman, Sainsbury's head of property development, said the new centre would bring new jobs and further investment to the area.

"We have demonstrated this commitment to the project by increasing our stake in the scheme and we continue to work closely with all parties to finalise agreements so that we can deliver the scheme as quickly as possible."