New community centre plans unveiled

The authority said it would be submitting a planning application for the new centre

Plans for a new community centre, as part of an Oxford housing redevelopment project, have been unveiled.

The scheme, by Oxford City Council and developers Peabody, will see 294 new homes, shops and community facilities built in two phases and across two sites in Blackbird Leys.

The authority said it had spoken to more than 1,100 people in the community, at some 40 events over 14 months, before revealing the final plans at the Church Of The Holy Family last week.

It said a planning application for the new centre was due to be submitted, with work expected to start in early 2025.

The proposal for the new centre includes a large hall, community kitchens, lettable offices and a community garden

Work on the Blackbird Leys district centre redevelopment began in January and the old community centre has already been knocked down.

A large hall, community kitchens, lettable offices and a community garden are included in the proposal for the new building's amenities.

Architects Transition by Design, appointed as the engagement consultants for the centre, said there would be "continued engagement" with members of the public after the planning application has been submitted.