West Oxfordshire District Council has announced a programme of improvements at Marriotts Walk Shopping Centre in Witney, saying the works are intended to make the public space more attractive as the hub experiences increased visitor numbers and high retailer occupancy.
What the scheme includes
The council says the project will include upgraded and additional seating, the planting of trees, a redesign of existing woodland areas and improved wayfinding and signage across the centre.
- More seating and improved layout
- New trees and landscape works
- Redesign of woodland areas within the precinct
- Better signage and wayfinding for visitors
Council sets the work in context
West Oxfordshire District Council said the investment follows a 28.6% year-on-year increase in footfall at Marriotts Walk and that 20 of 21 retail units in the centre are currently occupied — figures the authority presents as evidence of an improving commercial outlook. The council also reported that the centre generated more than £450,000 of contributions to local services in the 2025/26 period.
| Metric | Reported figure |
|---|---|
| Year-on-year footfall change | +28.6% |
| Occupied retail units | 20 of 21 |
| Contribution to local services (2025/26) | £450,000+ |
Councillors react
Duncan Enright, the council’s executive member for economic development, described the past year as "incredibly positive" for the hub and said the authority is "building on that success with investment into making the space nicer for people to use."
"We are now building on that success with investment into making the space nicer for people to use."
Conservative councillor Thomas Ashby welcomed the refresh but stressed it should not come at the expense of taxpayers and said any improvements must be funded from the centre’s own revenues since the administration decided to purchase the shopping centre in 2023. He urged the council to prioritise essential infrastructure repairs — for example, frequently broken lifts and doors — and to consult local residents on changes they would like to see.
Local impact and next steps
The council presents the enhancements as part of a wider strategy to support town-centre vitality, attract new businesses, and stage events that enliven Witney’s centre. With occupancy at its highest recorded level and rising footfall, the authority says Marriotts Walk is well placed to build on recent momentum during 2026.
Details remain limited on the project timetable, the full cost and how works will be phased. Council documents and statements so far have indicated funding will follow the centre’s revenue performance but have not published a breakdown of capital expenditure or an exact schedule for delivery. Residents and businesses seeking further information should look to forthcoming West Oxfordshire District Council updates or direct enquiries to the council’s economic development team.
The scheme highlights the continuing debate about the role of local authorities as town-centre landlords: supporters point to increased occupancy and income as justification for reinvestment, while critics warn of the need for transparency and priority-setting when public funds are involved.
