Work has begun on a new masterplan intended to guide the future regeneration of Banbury and help attract investment to Oxfordshire’s largest town.
Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council are developing the Banbury Framework Masterplan, with discussions already under way with local stakeholders including businesses, employers and transport providers.
The work builds on earlier planning and public engagement, including the Banbury Vision 2050 project. Consultants Prior + Partners have been appointed to develop the framework, with the work expected to conclude in early 2027.
The councils say the masterplan will consider opportunities across the town centre, transport network and key development sites, while bringing together evidence, local knowledge and expertise to establish a longer-term vision for Banbury.
Councillor Gareth Epps, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, said the town was at an important point in its development, with opportunities emerging across several areas.
He said the scale of the ambition meant the councils would need to work with businesses and other organisations to attract future investment.
Discussions have begun with representatives from the business, transport, health, environmental, cultural and education sectors. Further engagement with local communities is also planned as the work develops.
Councillor Lesley McLean, Leader of Cherwell District Council and Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, said the masterplan would build on Banbury’s businesses, heritage, transport connections and community.
The councils intend for the work to inform future investment planning and help bring additional funding into the town.
A dedicated Banbury investment prospectus is also planned, intended to promote the town to potential investors and highlight opportunities for future development.
The masterplan is expected to provide a framework for potential regeneration projects and investment decisions over the longer term. However, the work is still at an early stage, and specific projects arising from the framework have yet to be identified.
