MORE than 200 residents have signed a petition in support of plans to regenerate the former US airbase near Bicester.

Heyford Park Residents Association wrote to everyone living at the base and asked for signatures in support of plans developed by the North Oxfordshire Consortium (NOC).

The plans included new homes, about 30 per cent of which will be classed as 'affordable'.

New facilities such as a primary school and a number of retail and business spaces to provide up to 1,300 jobs - 300 more than currently offered - are also proposed.

Of the 304 homes contacted, 216 signed in support, with eight refusing, and the others were not available during the 21 days, which Cherwell District Council allowed for response.

The petition has been submitted to the council.

The Residents' Association is also calling for local people's jobs to be guaranteed by allowing existing companies at the site to continue using the aircraft hangers at the site.

Residents association chair Patricia Kirbycorr said: "We are desperate to know what the future holds and be offered some stability."

The NOC claims that its plans will create a new, high quality, stable community. But the proposals are now in danger of being rejected by the council.

The NOC's greatest concern is that the council will call for a number of the base's historic Cold War buildings to be left untouched and vacant, the perimeter fence removed and public access extended.

But, the NOC believes this would lead to anti-social behaviour and criminal damage on the site. It also fears businesses would be put off, leading to job losses.

If you would like to add your signature to the petition, please contact 01869 233511.