Reimagining Bicester: Your Chance to Shape the Future of Market Square

Community survey and events invite ideas to transform Bicester Market Square into a hub.

Residents of Bicester have been given an opportunity to influence the future of Market Square with a survey and a series of events that could make it the leading vibrant, inclusive community hub.

Cherwell District Council has launched a six-week public survey, in which residents, businesses, and visitors can have their say in shaping the future of Bicester's Market Square. Between 20 November and 29 December 2024, this is an opportunity for the community to contribute towards the transformation of Market Square into a vibrant, accessible, and inclusive hub.

The scheme, being led by Cherwell District Council in partnership with Bicester Town Council and Oxfordshire County Council, aims to celebrate Bicester's heritage, while updating the space with more greenery, better access, and clearer spaces for events and community activity or local business use.

Councillor David Hingley, Leader of the Council, explained the significance of the project: "Market Square is at the heart of Bicester, and its improvement represents an exciting opportunity to create a space that belongs to all. We want your ideas to help us design a town centre we can all be proud of."

Public engagement sessions will allow residents to meet the project team, see early concepts, and have their say. These are on Tuesday, 26 November at Bicester Library between 10 am – 4 pm and on Friday, 29 November at the Friday Market between 9 am – 3 pm.

This need for improvement arises because it faces certain challenges, including the capacity for accessibility improvement and partial use of space. The idea is to create Market Square as a connected, inviting space that encourages community interaction, attracts visitors, and supports economic growth. Against the plans previously developed, taking input from a 2019 workshop led by retail expert Bill Grimsey, this process begins completely anew, with community input at the forefront.

Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or visitor, your voice matters. Participate online or in person to help shape a Market Square that reflects the aspirations of Bicester’s vibrant community.