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The final countdown
A LONG-AWAITED scheme to transform the heart of Bicester is set to begin on August 16.
Work will start on the first phase of a 70-million project to bring a sevenscreen digital cinema, Sainsbury's supermarket and new shops and restaurants to Bicester town centre.
Other major elements will include a new bus interchange, improved parking, and a new civic building for the town.
Ben Littman, Sainsbury's development surveyor, said: "We are delighted
to be starting work on this project, which will transform the heart of the town centre.
"We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the local community in advance for their patience over the coming months.
"Bicester is a key location for Sainsbury's and we look forward to playing an active role in the local community for many years to come."
The next few weeks will see the diversion of the town brook, construction of new bus lay-bys and work on Manorsfield Road.
The initial works, taking around eight months to complete, will be carried out in three phases to minimise disruption.
Manorsfield Road will be kept open, but may have two-way temporary traffic lights when required.
Councillor Norman Bolster, Cherwell District Council's head of economic
development, said: "I am very pleased that at last people in Bicester are to get this development that the town needs."
He said it had been a long journey to get to this point, and that the improved shopping and leisure facilities should attract many more visitors to the town centre.
"At last it will be obvious that this project is very much alive and will be delivered," Mr Bolster added.
John Liggins, managing director of the development partner Stockdale
Land, said he is proud to be part of a project that promises to open up new opportunities for Bicester.
He added: "It has been a lot of hard work but Bicester will soon have a new Sainsbury's, new restaurants and shops and a digital screen cinema."
A 24-hour helpline number has been set up for anyone with concerns or
questions regarding the town centre redevelopment.
Contact staff on 0845 604 8853 or email bicester@gka.co.uk for more information.
> What do you think about the new look for Bicester town centre? We want to know what you think. Call the Advertiser on 01280 827940 or send an email to editorial@buckinghamadvertiser.co.uk.
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Weather for Buckingham
Sunday 12 February 2012
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