Resident brands Bicester supermarket stairs a safety hazard

Jamie Jessett, an active litter picker in the town, explained that rubbish is often dumped on the stairs and there is a strong smell of urine at the Pioneer Square car park located near Sainsbury’s on Bure Place.

It comes after complaints about the 'disgusting state' of the car park - which is located within the same square as the supermarket - in February.

Mr Jessett also noted that the lifts do not work which restricts the access of elderly and disabled people and prevents them from coming to the town.

Barriers can be seen placed in front of the lifts at the car park.

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Mr Jessett said: “It is always bad. It is a health and safety risk.

“Youths smoke weed. They drop litter.

“The police need to be there patrolling the area.

“Why are people not taking it more seriously?”

Mr Jessett believes that the problem is exacerbated by the lack of youth clubs in Bicester, which means young people have nowhere else to go in his opinion. 

“You can see why the kids hang out there,” he added.

“It’s a warm space.”

Mr Jessett said he wants to engage with Sainsbury’s and the council, instead of criticising young people for the damage.

A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “Customer and colleague safety is our highest priority.

"We are working hard to make sure the stairwell at our Bicester store meets our usual high standards and are in regular contact with the council on this.

"We are sorry for the inconvenience.”