Bicester’s longstanding Friday Market, which has operated continuously for nearly eight centuries, has thrown its weight behind a scheme to introduce complimentary parking in the town centre.
Emma Gould, who operates the weekly market alongside her picture framing enterprise, has endorsed plans put forward for two hours of cost-free parking at all five car parks managed by Cherwell District Council.
The commercial gathering traces its origins to 1239, when King Henry III authorised Bicester to conduct a regular weekly market.
This historical trading tradition has continued uninterrupted for approximately 787 years.
Independent Bicester town and district councillor Les Sibley suggested the initiative could stimulate increased pedestrian activity and strengthen the local economy.
The proposed arrangement would encompass Victoria Road, Claremont, Market Square, and Chapel Brook short-stay facilities, along with the Cattle Market long-stay option.
Collectively, these five locations provide 524 parking spaces, excluding designated blue badge areas.
Gould expressed support for Sibley’s assessment, noting that complimentary parking across all facilities would unquestionably benefit the town.
She observed that Fridays already experience significant footfall, and the measure could enhance this further while also drawing visitors on alternative weekdays.
Additionally, she suggested that such a policy might attract new commercial enterprises to vacant premises should traders recognise the potential for increased customer numbers.
Customers might naturally extend their visits beyond the complimentary two-hour window if they anticipate only minimal charges for additional time.
John Bailey, proprietor of J.B Barber Shop situated in Market Square, has also embraced the proposals.
Having operated his establishment for more than three decades, Bailey reported a sustained downturn in trade.
The 78-year-old businessman, who was born in Bicester, acknowledged considerable difficulties in maintaining operations.
He noted that Market Square has experienced unprecedented quietude since major retailers such as Marks and Spencer’s departed the town, leaving New Look as the sole remaining substantial clothing outlet.
In a statement released during July, Cherwell District Council indicated ongoing efforts to support local enterprises and commercial districts through various measures, including parking provisions.
The authority noted that its managed car parks across the district maintain competitive pricing structures and expressed commitment to preserving affordability.
Parking fee reviews form an integral component of annual budgetary considerations.
The council disclosed development of a comprehensive visitor economy and high street strategy aligned with broader economic growth objectives for the district.
Results from this initiative were expected to inform targeted interventions for town centres and independent traders.
Separately, works to redesign Market Square were underway, with further enhancements planned for the Pioneer Square vicinity following previous improvements to shop frontage cleanliness undertaken earlier in the year.