PLANS to redevelop a former factory in Banbury have been revised to “protect the heritage” of the site.

Planning permission is being sought by owner Standard Life Investments for six buildings at the 53-acre former Sapa factory site in Southam Road.

The application is likely to go before Cherwell District Council’s planning committee at the end of this month.

Changes include restricting any building to the original aluminium factory line, keeping and restoring the gate lodge and the renovation of the memorial garden.

The listed gates will also be reinstated near the gate house and there will be landscaping along Noral Way and the canal.

There could be restrictions on cars and lorries to stop extra traffic noise.

James Stevens, head of UK development for the firm, said: “It is our intention to develop a commercial scheme at Southam Road that will provide significant employment opportunities while protecting the heritage of this important site.

“We know that generations of Banbury residents have worked at Southam Road.

“While the land and factories have passed through many hands, we intend to bring the site back into commercial and employment use, to ensure it provides job opportunities for future generations and continues the historic linkages through the protection of the listed offices, gates and war memorial.”