Crumbling shops on Oxford estates are being lined up for a major facelift, writes Mark Templeton.

Oxford City Council has drawn up a list of proposals to overhaul the eyesore parades which have been left vandalised and empty.

Revamp ideas include a new community computer centre at Westlands Drive, Northway Estate, Headington, where residents will be able to have the latest technology at their fingertips.

Kendall Crescent in north Oxford will be considered for a new paint job, lighting scheme and landscaping while Underhill Circus will see its garage block refurbished.

One of the first sites to benefit from the council's plans to refurbish parades is on Blackbird Leys Road where a three-month scheme has just started.

It will see a new enclosed staircase to flats above the stores, the removal of a brick wall on the forecourt, new trees, lighting and redec- orating.

The council's civic and property sub-committee meets today to discuss the plans.