Demolition work for Westgate revamp begins

First published in News by Matt Oliver, Reporter covering North Oxford, Jericho and Summertown. Call me on 01865 425498

DEMOLITION began for the overhaul of the Westgate Shopping Centre yesterday, kicking off its 440m redevelopment.

Over the next two years, the scheme will add 100 new shops, a five-screen cinema and 25 cafes and restaurants to the site.

Yesterday developer Westgate Oxford Alliance made up of Land Securities and The Crown Estate announced more shops set to join a line-up that already includes John Lewis, Next, Primark, Michael Kors and Curzon Cinemas.

It is hoped the overhaul will boost Oxfords shopping credentials to rival Reading and Milton Keynes when it is completed in autumn 2017.

And developers are boasting space in the city is the most sought-after in the country.

The redevelopment will also see the the existing mall off Bonn Square refurbished and a new underground multistorey car park created to replace the old one.

Yesterday the Westgate Oxford Alliance said it had already pre-let 28 per cent of new shops and restaurants in the centre.

Land Securities chief executive Robert Noel said: Weve taken a significant step towards creating our vision for a world-class retail and leisure destination in Oxford, having worked hard with our customers and the community to shape the right scheme.

Alongside our growing list of customers, we are committed to creating a new Westgate Oxford which not only complements the citys beauty and heritage status but also enhances its global reputation as a great place to spend time.

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Demolition work for Westgate revamp begins