On 6 October Cherwell District Council's Executive agreed that the Banbury Canalside scheme should be further developed, with the prospect of around 1,200 much needed new homes for the site along with restaurants, cafes, shops and leisure opportunities.

The development will see significant economic regeneration for the town whilst the homes will contribute to meeting Banbury's housing need without impinging on green belt land.

With its position at the heart of Banbury, close to road, rail and bus links, the town's Canalside area has long been considered a prime site for a new urban neighbourhood. The council's proposals will see help for existing businesses on the site to relocate, including Banbury United football club.

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Canalside is an area of about 45 acres between Bridge Street, Cherwell Street, and the railway line. The Council has been investigating the development potential of this site for some time, helped by English Partnerships. The regeneration of this area is likely to be an attractive alternative to allocating a greenfield site for the development of the new homes that the Council is required to provide for.

Councillor Norman Bolster, Cherwell District Council's portfolio holder for economic development and estates said: "This is a demanding, long term project. We need to have a clear vision that this area can be transformed if public and private sectors work together. For us the involvement of a national regeneration agency, English Partnerships is hugely encouraging."

For further information visit: Executive To Consider Canalside Regeneration

(CD/JM)