Plans are emerging to overhaul Castle Quay and its environs in Banbury.

Cherwell District Council is exploring methods to inject fresh vitality into the town centre by reactivating vacant premises and establishing a more lively, diverse destination.

Lesley McLean, serving as deputy leader overseeing finance, property and regeneration, said Banbury possesses a wealth of heritage and distinctive character, and it falls to the council to build on those foundations. The vision is to cultivate a town centre that evolves alongside its residents and responds to shifting needs, offering people greater variety and opportunities.

The initiative encompasses introducing new leisure facilities, arts and cultural spaces, commercial offices and family-oriented businesses to supplement the existing retail mix, with the intention of mirroring changes in consumer behaviour and community aspirations.

Oxfordshire County Council, collaborating with Cherwell, is simultaneously developing a comprehensive Banbury Masterplan to guide the town’s sustained growth and transformation.

Ms McLean noted that by reassessing how spaces both within and surrounding Castle Quay are used, the ambition is to create a destination where people naturally want to extend their visit, regardless of whether they are popping in, conducting business, browsing or spending a day with family. The objective is to establish a contemporary, experience-focused town centre that supports local enterprises, draws further investment and economic growth, and delivers improved local amenities for residents.

Recent developments have seen Cherwell District Council move its principal offices to Castle Quay. Work is progressing on constructing an expanded, more accessible new library for the town centre, while family entertainment venue FunParx has confirmed it will take up residence in one of the units.