A MULTI-MILLION shopping centre development in West Oxford is on schedule to open this year, according to developers.

And a new community centre, featuring an improved library and the local Baptist church, will officially open on Saturday, January 25.

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This paves the way for the launch of the new facilities called West Way Square by developers The Botley Development Company, a joint venture between Mace Developments and Doric Properties.

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David Banks of Mace said: "After four years of working very closely with local residents and stakeholders, we are delighted that these new community facilities will be the first stage of the redevelopment to open, providing a focal point for the community in Botley.

Oxford Mail:

"We are looking forward to the rest of the development opening in stages during 2020.”

The new development will feature new shops, a new Premier Inn hotel, postgraduate accommodation, new apartments and offices.

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North Hinksey parish councillor Chris Church said developers' initial proposals had been scaled back following protests they were too large, before a smaller scheme was approved.

He added: "West Way Square seems to be on schedule and the first new building to open will be the new community centre near Elms Parade featuring the new library and Baptist church.

Oxford Mail:

"As I understand it the Premier Inn is due to open this summer and there will be hundreds of new student rooms for postgraduates.

"There is still some building work going on but I am sure they are on schedule - two big cranes came down last week and they have taken scaffolding down on the two largest buildings.

"The previous West Way shopping centre was run-down – now there will be a much bigger Co-op.

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"Elms Parade, with a bunch of independent traders and small chains, is staying and appears to be doing very well."

Mr Church added that residents would be relieved when building work on the new scheme was completed.

Oxford Mail:

He said some community groups are ready to start using the new community centre, including Zumba dance classes.

The developers' website describes West Way Square as 'A new heart for West Oxford'.

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It adds: "This exciting new development has been designed to reinvigorate the local centre’s character and surrounding area.

"The central public piazza with restaurants and cafes will provide an attractive focal point for residents, visitors, shoppers and the local community.

Oxford Mail:

"When completed, West Way Square will complement the charm of this bustling West Oxford neighbourhood and offer something for the whole community and the many people who visit the district."

West Way Square will include a selection of restaurants, cafés and convenience stores catering for the local community, residents, students and hotel guests.

Oxford Mail:

The Premier Inn will have 123 bedrooms, and there will be 261 student apartments and 144 residential apartments.

So far chains due to open are Tesco Express, Iceland, Lloyds Pharmacy, Chancellors, and Co-op Food Market.

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The website promises: "This revitalised town centre will be a thriving hub with regular visitors using the hotel, library, church and community hall.

Oxford Mail:

"The surrounding residential area will be making use of the convenience stores already coming to the development.

"With 300 parking spaces available and great transport links, getting to West Way Square will be easy."

One, two and three-bedroom apartments are planned at West Way Place.

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Developers say West Way Square will be an ideal spot for a small or medium-sized business to call home.

The development includes 3,300 sq ft of open-plan office space.