Over 2,000 sign petitions against Ozone Leisure Park changes. Concerns grow over labs replacing community spaces.
Early worries suggested the cinema might close permanently. Developers now say that a new cinema could be included. However, this cinema would have fewer screens, featuring only three or four.
Payam Atar started a petition against the changes. Over 1,885 people have signed this petition. Another petition comes from the Independent Oxford Alliance, with nearly 700 signatures.
The Independent Oxford Alliance opposes the plan. They do not want labs in the Ozone Leisure Park. They believe this will hurt the community, as fewer community facilities already exist in that area.
People shared why they signed the petition. Shireen Chilcott values the Vue cinema and bowling alley. She sees them as central to social life and feels demolition would remove a community hub.
Alice Gould often takes her son to the area, using many facilities like bowling and crazy golf. The cinema, pool tables, and soft play are also frequented.
The Ozone Leisure Park Reimagined project shared their vision. They want to create a community innovation district with jobs and opportunities for people. They also want to honor Oxford science.
Transition by Design will lead community engagement. This Oxford company will co-design leisure elements. Developers plan to attend community events soon, in February and March, to discuss plans. Public workshops will also happen for community input, and they will work with local youth groups too.