TRAFFIC problems in Bicester have put stop to plans to build a new retail park which councillors say without road improvements cannot go ahead.

But developers CPG Development Projects say they will come back with revised plans to address this issue, which has divided the town.

The development which would have been built off Oxford Road was initially rejected by councillors in October and appeal against that decision has also been rejected.

Plans included shops such as Next and Marks and Spencer, plus three restaurants and a gym.

Cherwell District Council lead member for planning Colin Clarke said: "We know that there was some support in Bicester for this development but we also know from engaging directly with residents that traffic congestion around the town is one of their biggest concerns.

"This application would have significantly increased the amount of traffic in the area but did not make any provisions for improving the road network or providing suitable public transport alternatives.

"A further review of this proposal has verified our concerns and confirmed we were right to deny permission based upon the traffic congestion and the adverse effect it would have on future development .

"Until we can be assured that enough provisions are in place to mitigate the congestion which this development is sure to generate, the inspector agrees we cannot justify approving these proposals."

However, Kingsmere Residents Association has hit out at the decision.

Co-chairman Graham Brogden said: "This is a very disappointing outcome for all of our ever-growing town as the mainstream high street retail offer continues to lag way behind that of Banbury, Oxford and Aylesbury.

"It also continues to make an embarrassing mockery of our much promoted eco-town status as residents have to drive to such towns for mainstream retailers.

"Bicester will now sadly have to wait even longer for a much overdue and needed improved retail offer.

"We need action now and not in years to come."

Applicants CPG has also spoken of its disappointment and said it believes the issues for refusal - including design and highways - can be overcome and home to consider their plans to amend the application.

The retail park has been proposed for land south of the Little Chef on the Oxford Road which backs onto the Kingsmere Village development.

Bicester Traffic Action Group was among the original objectors over concerns of added congestion on the already busy A41 Oxford Road.

It said: "BicesterTAG are pleased that the planning inspector has agreed with the decision of Cherwell District Council officers and councillors.

"The proposed site, adjacent to a primary school and homes is already scheduled to receive substantial developments and is close to areas of long-term health damaging air pollution.

"However Bicester is a growing town and clearly needs expanded retail facilities to suit.

"It is disappointing that Cherwell District Council's masterplan has only considered housebuilding and not transport, leisure, green areas and retail."

The group called for developers to find an alternative site in the town.