A MIXED response has been given to plans for the biggest investment in Abingdon’s town centre for decades.

Abbey Shopping Centre and the Charter area came under the spotlight during a three-day consultation.

The multi-million-pound plans went on show at an exhibition held at an empty shop in Bury Street on Friday, Saturday and today.

Residents expressed concerns about traffic congestion and problems caused by moving the doctor’s surgery and library up to the first floor.

Scottish Widows Investment Partnership, which has a long lease on the site, has proposed a major supermarket with a 700-space car park. It also wants to redevelop the former Woolworths store and possibly build a new hotel.

Rob Bennington, from New River Capital, which manages the site, said: “We will take away people’s comments and look hard at them – it’s not just a public relations exercise.”

The Abbey Shopping Centre refurbishment could be completed within a year, but the Charter will take longer.

Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council Tony De Vere visited the exhibition on Friday.

He said: “It’s a major statement to put these plans on show. We have been here before, with people’s hopes raised, so it is great to finally have this for people to comment on.”

Residents have until February 12 to view the plans.