Our stunning UK city is blighted by ‘eyesore’ shopping centre that NEEDS revamp – or will send us into ‘downward spiral’
LOCALS say their stunning city has been blighted by an "eyesore" shopping centre that needs a revamp.
The rundown building has been affected by crime and antisocial behaviour.
The Templars Square shopping centre in Cowley, Oxford, first opened on May 11, 1965 - 60 years later, there are concerns that it is on a "downward spiral."
In March 2022 the property was bought by Redevco, a real estate investment manager and developer, for £38.8 million.
They hoped to turn the centre into a mixed-urban scheme, however, they said they are still "some way off" from being able to publicly share their plans.
They last held a public consultation in late 2022, with around 9000 locals invited to attend.
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In the meantime, they are trying to encourage independent retailers to move into the empty units.
These delays are leaving local politicians frustrated by the lack of change.
The city council had approved redevelopment plans back in 2017 which included building a hotel, restaurants and 226 flats and was set to cost £60 million.
These plans were made by developer NewRiver prior to selling the centre to Redevco.
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Councillor Linda Smith, the cabinet member for housing at Oxford City Council told "The city council aren't holding Redevco back at all.
"We understand it's a difficult time for investment in this kind of development.
"But if it is going to take time, then it's really important that the centre isn't allowed to just spiral downwards and get worse."
As it currently stands she said it is "not fit for purpose" and is "nothing less than an eyesore in places."
Not only is the building ruining the cityscape, but it has also become a hotspot for crime.
Police were recently called to the site following reports that groups of youths were having in mid-March.
Annaliese Dodds, MP for Oxford East, raised concerns over crime in Cowley earlier this year, and is keen for more resources in the suburbs.
There were 189 crimes recorded by the Oxford Cowley Neighbourhood Policing Team in December 2024, largely occurring near Templars Square.
Locals celebrated the 60th anniversary of the centre on the 11th May with an Elton John tribute act, a display of three Leyland Princess cars, and an historical walking tour with historian Maurice East.
Councillor Linda Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: ”Templars Square is 60 years old and needs investment to modernise and remain popular as a destination for local residents to shop, meet and access services.
“Oxford City Council holds the freehold of the site and we're ready to work with Redevco who are the owners and managers of Templars Square on its redevelopment. We've been pressing Redevco to develop their long-term vision for the centre and begin consulting with the local community about how it can best serve the future needs of local people.
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“If there is going to be any delay to the much-needed regeneration, then it's absolutely vital that effort continues to be put into bringing more activity and footfall into the centre in the shorter term to help make the area more attractive, safe and welcoming."
The Sun has approached Thames Valley Police for comment.
