New public spaces could be created as part of a multi-million pound redesign of Oxford’s Clarendon Centre, its owners have revealed.

With the coronavirus having such a negative effect on footfall on the high street the shopping centre owners have indicated they want to diversify and no longer use it exclusively for retail.

Lothbury Investment Management now wants to consult with shoppers and residents about the proposed changes to the complex off Cornmarket Street before they put in a planning application to Oxford City Council.

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Artists' impression of a new public space

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The consultation by centre owners Lothbury Investment Management will include plans to create new public spaces in the heart of the city at both ground and roof level, and open a new link into the historic Frewin Court which has been left largely unused in recent years.

Chains at the centre include fashion brands H&M, TK Maxx, and Gap Outlet.

Adam Smith, from Lothbury Investment Management, said: “There have been dramatic changes in the retail sector since the Clarendon Centre first opened in 1984.

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“Since then the centre has been adapted several times and we believe it must continue to evolve to meet the needs of Oxford over the next 40 years.

“The site will no longer be one large retail centre, as it is now.

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“Instead, a range of new uses is being proposed, so in addition to retail, restaurants and cafes we are also exploring how we can provide laboratory facilities, student accommodation and further office space.

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“At the heart of the redevelopment will be a new public space. We hope this will add to the famous squares and quadrangles of Oxford and be truly accessible to all. We want this to become a new green oasis in the heart of the city to provide an area in which people can relax, work and play in a safe, inspiring environment.

“For the first time, we are excited to be providing public access to a landscape designed roof space which will showpiece the stunning Oxford skyline.”

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Lothbury is now consulting on these proposals. Residents can view and comment on the proposals by visiting Clarendon-Oxford-Consultation.co.uk. The project team will be hosting a ‘digital drop-in’ on Wednesday, November, 4 at 6pm. This will include a presentation from the architects and an opportunity for shoppers to submit questions. Residents can join the presentation from the website.

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Following the consultation, Lothbury will submit a planning application before the end of the year.

TK Maxx opened its store last year after Zara moved out to the Westgate Centre.