Bicester residents, businesses, and visitors are being urged by Cherwell District Council (CDC) to take part in a new public survey to "help shape the future" of Bicester Market Square.
Starting today (November 14), the six-week survey offers the community the opportunity to share their ideas and shape plans for a Market Square.
The 'Bicester Market Square: Have Your Say' is an opportunity to create a "welcoming environment honouring Bicester’s rich history" while offering "enhanced" green spaces, "improved" accessibility, and areas for community events and local businesses, says CDC.
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David Hingley, leader of CDC, said: “Market Square is the heart of Bicester, and this project is all about working with the community to make it a space we can all be proud of.
"We want to hear your thoughts and ideas for the future of Market Square – it’s your square, your town centre.
"By participating in this survey, you can help shape a place that truly belongs to the community.
"So please take 10 minutes to share your views, and let’s work together to create something special for Bicester.”
This is just the first step, with further stages allowing for refinement and ensure the final design and business case align closely with what the community wants.
Survey participants can share how they use Market Square, what improvements they would like to see, and which outcomes should be prioritised to create a space that meets everyone’s needs.
An exhibition at Bicester Library will launch on Tuesday, November 26 showcasing what the project hopes to achieve and providing paper copies of the survey for participants.
There are also two scheduled public engagement sessions where people will have the chance meet the project team and share their thoughts.
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The first one will take place on Tuesday, November 26 at Bicester Library from 10am until 4pm.
The second one will take place on Friday, November 29 at Friday Market from 9am until 3pm.
In February 2023, Cherwell District Council announced the approval of a £4.25m allocation of funds to transform Bicester Market Square into a multi-use community hub.
The council said the goal is to create a "thriving" hub where the local community and visitors can come together to "enjoy a variety of experiences and events in a space that is much more visually attractive", with new lighting and landscaping.
The survey is available at https://bicestermarketsquarepublicsurvey for everyone to give their views on Market Square until Sunday, December 29.
For more information and to stay updated on the project, visit: https://www.cherwell.gov.uk/bicester-market-square.
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