THE MULTI-MILLION pound transformation of Blackbird Leys could take a long-awaited leap forward today.

If approved, the regeneration could include up to 190 new homes, new shops and a new community centre which could include a library and advice centre.

Andrew Smith, MP for Oxford East, said it was a “great opportunity” to bring a “new heart to Blackbird Leys”.

Mr Smith said: “It is crucial to get good quality design, range of uses and parking arrangements and to listen to the views of local people.

“We want a real sense of community ownership of this project, something local residents will be proud of, which will meet their needs.

“Part of me will actually be sad to see some of the old buildings go as they have made an important contribution to my own life on the estate. But if we can get something really good to replace them it will be good for the future of Blackbird Leys.”

A report setting out plans for the district centre, which was mainly built in the 1950s and 1960s, will go before the city council executive board this afternoon.

Councillors are set to agreespending about £300,000 on finding and appointing a developer for the project.

 
Posted by Oxford Mail Interactive Graphics on Wednesday, June 10, 2015

 

Scott Seamons, board member for housing, said: “This is a really exciting project. It will be transformative for the estate. We have had a number of consultations and other partners on board. What we want isn’t just someone who will develop the plans, but deliver them at the end.

“We have taken a step back from some of the grand plans. What we have now is a proposal that we feel we can deliver.”

If all goes to plan, work on the site could begin in 2017. No time-frame has been set for the project’s completion, but Mr Seamons suggested it could take three to four years.

Previously the council said about £20m would be spent on the project but Mr Seamons said the final cost could be higher.

It is in addition to the scheme to refurbish the two tower blocks – Windrush and Evenlode – which has been delayed by almost a year. The project, approved in November, is not likely to start until early next year.

Blackbird Leys Parish Council chairman Gordon Roper said: “It’s a long time coming.

“I remember the community centre when it was first built. It was a thriving place with a bar and dancing. Over the years it has deteriorated.”

Speaking at a parish council meeting, David Edwards, corporate director of regeneration at the city council, said: “Two years ago we had the Prince’s Foundation come and work with community representatives to look at how we could improve.

“We took that report and have been working with consultants to understand the options available.

“We need someone to work the plans up in detail so that they are robust and financially effective. It’s a complex process and needs handling properly.”

Resident Barbara Posner, 46, who volunteers at Blackbird Leys Adventure Playground, said: “I think it’s a good idea, the centre could do with a revamp.”

Centre volunteer Alan Wright, 80, of Greater Leys, said: “We could do with a proper post office.”