PLANS that will completely transform shopping in Bicester have been approved to build a new retail park for the town.

Marks and Spencers and Next are two brands who have pledged to move to the growing town as part of the new Bicester Gateway retail park

Councillors approved the plans which include building three shops, a gym and a restaurant on land of the A41, neighbouring Kingsmere.

Speaking at Thursday's meeting councillor Lynn Pratt said: “It is unfortunate the stores intended for this development can not be accommodated in the town centre.

But as we all know the empty units are not big enough to house brands such as this.

“There is the need for shops to serve the town as it continues to grow. As a town which is labelled a Healthy Town and eco town I find it ludicrous to think people have to travel to other towns for shopping.”

The decision comes after the plans were previously refused by Cherwell District Council over concerns for traffic generation on the already busy A41 and its design impacting nearby residents.

The revised plans by applicants Consolidate Property Group have addressed concerns by adding about 100 more parking spaces and widening the A41 leading up tot the entrance to the site.

The buildings designs were also altered to sit further away from homes and are smaller in height.