THE Rector of St Peter and St Paul Church in Botley is understandably concerned about the impact Doric’s new £100m shopping centre will have on the building.

For some living in the community the church plays an important part in their lives and they need reassurance that their place of worship will not be taken away.

Doric says it is placing the church at the heart of its scheme, but it could provide greater clarity on the detailed plans to put worshippers’ minds at rest.

With such a crucial development on the cards, the church is likely to have an even more vital community role to play.