WORK on a new community centre in Bicester is set to start on Monday at the Franklins Yard car park site.

The car park is due to close to the public tomorrow ahead of the 56-week construction project.

The £6.6m project will include a new library and hotel as well as shops and offices and is set to open by spring next year.

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The ground floor will house Cherwell District Council offices, space for Brethertons solicitors and a shop or restaurant. Space will be set aside on the first floor for Bicester Local History Society.

The development is part of the Pioneer Square shopping redevelopment project in the town, which opened in July 2013.

Cherwell District Council member for estates and economy Normal Bolster said: “The Bicester Community Building is the second and final stage of the town centre regeneration project, which has previously included the delivery of Pioneer Square.

“The building will represent a landmark feature for the town, designed to complement and enhance the existing businesses while offering a range of new services for both residents and visitors.”

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