Wantage Market Place improvement plans paused amid disputes

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 06:01 · Archive

Oxfordshire County Council has paused its scheme to improve Wantage Market Place following local criticism and funding challenges. The two-phase proposal received more than 2,000 responses during a summer consultation period.

The first phase, focused on the West End, would include increased event space, new trees, improved lighting and CCTV and a dedicated loading space for businesses, with the council saying the designs would 'make the space easier to use for those with mobility issues, families, and businesses and market traders'. The second phase, centred on the wider Market Place, was designed to 'put people and pedestrians first', removing car parking spaces, improving bus stops and implementing measures to lower traffic levels.

Wantage Town Council has acknowledged 'serious concern' about the proposals within the community, though it also recognised support for improvements to the Market Place. The town council noted that it had not yet received analysis of the recent consultation from Oxfordshire County Council.

The scheme was controversial from the outset. However, improvements to the West End are anticipated to begin in autumn 2027.

How it is being reported

• Controversial plans 'paused' amid argument over town's Market PlaceFollowing continued debate about proposals for an Oxfordshire town's Market Place, controversial plans have been paused.Oxford Mail · 26 Oct, 05:00
• Controversial plans 'paused' amid argument over town's Market PlaceFollowing continued debate about proposals for an Oxfordshire town's Market Place, controversial plans have been paused.Oxfordshire Guardian · 26 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Oxfordshire County Council · Wantage Town Council · Wantage · Oxfordshire

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