The firm managing Abingdon’s outdated Bury Street precinct is trying to revive it by bringing in big-name businesses.

Scottish Widows — which took over the lease from Threadneedle in December after a promised redevelopment of the centre stalled — is negotiating a deal with the site’s owner, the Vale of White Horse District Council, to restart the facelift project.

In addition, the company — which also manages a shopping centre in Banbury — has plans for a number of quicker changes.

It wants to link some of the units together to make larger premises, appoint a dedicated centre manager and attract larger retailers — possibly a fashion chain.

Allan Lockhart, Scottish Widows’ consultant, said: “It’s far too early to name any specific retailers but we’re trying to create the right kind of atmosphere and environment. It’s important to bring in the major high street names. It would be good to attract in a bit more fashion.”

The 1960s precinct has not had any improvements since it was built and traders have criticised it for looking dated.

There are currently 13 empty shops. Mr Lockhart said: “We will be working hard to try to stem the flow of units going.”

He said major work would not happen until next year but short-term changes could be made in a few months.

Matt Prosser, the district council’s strategic director, said officers would meet Scottish Widows later this month to discuss its plans for the future.

Stuart Bates, president of Abingdon’s Chamber of Commerce, said: “I think any progress is excellent news and would be welcomed by all traders in the town centre.”