For almost three decades now, the future of Oxford’s West End has been up in the air with controversy surrounding a number of different plans aiming to redevelop the retail district. However, this week plans to rebuild the Westgate Shopping Centre and adjacent land gained planning approval from the local authority.
First built in 1973, Westgate Shopping Centre has played a huge role in the retail landscape of Oxford in the past. Going forward, site owner Westgate Alliance plans to play on this history as well as incorporating modern retail and leisure aspects in order to create a destination which will be viewed as extremely competitive on an international level.
Under the approved proposals, the 14 acre site will gain 122 residential properties, along with space for an additional 100 retail units sure to attract the attention of local and national retailers. Furthermore, several restaurants and a multiplex cinema are expected to add to the attractions of the centre, along with a basement car park which will improve accessibility and mobility for visitors.
According to outline predictions made by Westgate Alliance, a total of 600 new jobs per year will be created during the construction process, which is due to come to a close in 2017. In addition, the group expects more than 3,400 retail and leisure positions to be created as a result of the upgraded facilities contained within the site.
The design for the development will largely take inspiration from modern continental European shopping centres, with covered streets mixing with open squares in order to create an aesthetically pleasing complex. New pedestrian walkways will again cater for the overall accessibility of units within the centre, while a roof top terrace will allow visitors to look out over Oxford’s skyline.
Unfortunately, the news has not been welcomed by a number of organisations within the city, despite the fact that a public consultation poll found that 71 per cent of respondents were in favour of the proposals. The Oxford Civic Society, for example, is concerned that the alterations of public highways and priority bus routes detailed in the plans will lead to an increase in traffic congestion.
Meanwhile, the Oxford Architectural and Historical Society is more concerned about the impact the development will have upon the “traditional view” of Oxford. Due to the height and scale of the new development, it is of the belief that city views will be obstructed and many of Oxford’s most impressive properties may be cast into the shadows, so to speak.
A spokesman for the society said; “Buildings should preserve and enhance the historical environment by opening up townscape, not concealing it.”
Despite the roof top terrace and attempts to blend the design with the public image of Oxford, it seems that controversy is due to rage on regarding the redevelopment of the West End. However, with plans in place and work due to begin on the site imminently, those opposing the design may struggle to make headway against the Westgate Alliance.
Do you think new developments should attempt to remain true to character of the cities they occupy, or is a modern design more important when attracting higher levels of footfall?
