Dismantling of the former cinema on George Street in Oxford city centre has commenced to make way for a new accommodation development.
The Odeon Oxford venue shut its doors at the conclusion of January to facilitate the approved redevelopment scheme involving the demolition of the existing structure.
Oxford City Council gave the green light to Marick Real Estate’s proposals for a 145-unit aparthotel branded as Wilde Oxford, described as a design-focused lifestyle development.
Watkin Jones Group has been appointed as the principal contractor, with construction activities now underway.
Traders operating at Gloucester Green market, located off George Street and open from Wednesday through Saturday, are monitoring the building work with interest.
One market trader noted that demolition had begun but remained in its initial phase.
The trader acknowledged that trading would continue but expressed a desire to observe whether market access points would be impacted by the scale of the project.
The development is not anticipated to reach completion until the latter part of 2027.
A council spokesperson indicated that Marick Real Estate had confirmed Watkin Jones Group as construction partner during the week, with protective hoardings erected and demolition scheduled for the later summer period.
The aparthotel combines traditional hotel amenities with self-contained apartment facilities, incorporating social areas intended to serve guests, residents and visitors for meetings, work and networking.
A 400 square metre community facility is being created in collaboration with Makespace Oxfordshire, designed to function as a versatile space for diverse community activities.
The spokesperson confirmed that Gloucester Green market and neighbouring businesses would maintain operations throughout the construction period, with ongoing liaison to reduce any disruption.
According to the CN100 industry ranking, Watkin Jones Group ranks as the 54th largest contractor in the United Kingdom by annual turnover.
The aparthotel will comprise approximately 145 guest rooms situated across the upper five floors, with lobby facilities occupying the ground level alongside a bar and café.
Unlike conventional hotel accommodation, aparthotel units provide furnished apartments equipped with private kitchen facilities including a cooker and refrigerator.
Ed Turner, cabinet member for asset management, stated that Wilde Oxford would bring investment, employment opportunities and high-quality lodging to the city centre.
He expressed satisfaction that measures had been implemented to reduce disruption during construction and maintain dialogue with local residents, market traders and businesses.
Turner emphasised the importance of preserving Gloucester Green market and surrounding retail operations throughout the works.
The council spokesperson further outlined that demolition of the existing building is projected to occur between September and December, with construction activities including piling, foundations and the concrete structural frame scheduled to commence in the new year.