A planning application for the redevelopment of Seacourt Tower Retail Park in Botley are to be considered by Vale of White Horse District Council tonight.
The plans for phase two of the development include building new shops, restaurants and a café as well as changes to the parking and are recommended for approval by Vale planning officers.
During the consultation period, 28 letters of objection were submitted to the council as well as an objection from North Hinksey Parish Council.
Resident of nearby Hazel Road, Dave Ralphs, said: “[I] object to the loss of a filling station and car wash which could easily be retained on the site.
“Although the current station is pricy compared to others it is used and is the only station within several miles of Botley.”
Under the application the BP petrol station would be demolished.
In their objection the parish council said: “The recent changes to the junctions with the two arms of North Hinksey Lane and the slip road to the A34/A420 Cumnor Hill by-pass have made these more difficult and dangerous for pedestrians.
“There is no good cycle access to the Seacourt retail site.
“When the previous applications were approved there was no intention to close the nearest petrol station at the Oxpens.
“This is now certain to happen, so the situation has changed.”
The application was submitted to the Vale council on May 6 this year by BAPT Ltd and was set to be considered at a meeting of the council’s planning committee at The Beacon in Portway, Wantage at 6.30pm last night.
In a statement submitted with the application, written by Southampton-based Saunders Architects, said: “The retail units have been designed to be attractive and modern in appearance.”
For an update on last night’s decision check oxfordshireguardian.co.uk or see next week’s paper.
