PLANS to demolish Botley’s West Way shopping centre and build a cinema and shopping complex should include space for independent traders, it was called for last night.

Doric Properties has announced plans to knock down the centre to pave the way for a new multi-screen cinema and shops.

But concerns have been raised by county councillor for North Hinksey and Wytham Janet Godden.

She said: “I certainly welcome investment in West Way, which has for so long been neglected, but many residents want to keep the small independent shops which they value very much, but all we hear about is a large supermarket.”

She called for a speedy turnaround on any planning bid, saying residents would not want to wait long.

And she also said the developer should work with the owners of the nearby Seacourt retail park.

She added: “Investment is welcome but it’s come out of the blue and there are questions to be answered.”

Doric spokesman Julian Seymour said it was too early in the planning stages to release any more information.