The plan also called for government departments to work together to speed up improvements in the area - such as junction 9 of the M40 - to ease traffic congestion in the area.

Both of these ambitions were realised today with Mr Shaw announcing that the Highways Agency will commence work to improve Junction 9 of the M40 in Spring 2010.

And he confirmed more government investment will come to Bicester with the town receiving a share of a £60-million fund specifically allocated to areas with eco-development status, although the exact amount won't be known until the new year.

Mr Shaw made the announcements at today's Bicester Summit, hosted by Cherwell District Council and Bicester Vision at Bicester Country Club, and stressed the importance of finding ways to develop sustainable ways of living.

"It is appropriate that whilst the world gathers in Copenhagen to reach agreement on reducing carbon emissions and limiting the impact of climate change on the world, we are here, in Oxfordshire, taking forward an exciting new approach that puts into action some of the steps necessary for Britain to meet its commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 80% by 2050," he said.

"We must work together to address and overcome issues, to achieve our joint aim of tackling climate change and providing quality homes in communities where people want to live and work. Be assured government will work with you to realise all our ambitions."

Representatives from the Department of Transport, Defence Estates, Department of Health and the Environment Agency also took the stand to outline their commitment to Bicester.

Councillor Barry Wood, leader of Cherwell District Council believes today's announcements demonstrate Cherwell's commitment to deliver its promises. He explains:

"The decision to support an eco-development at north-west Bicester was not taken lightly but we supported it because we knew it could bring more to Bicester than just housing. And we only agreed to support it if our ten-point plan was fulfilled. The announcements today prove we made the correct decision and I'm delighted we have secured support from central government to commence big initiatives. The eco-development is the catalyst which will deliver a brighter, greener future for Bicester."

The summit is hosting a public meeting in the afternoon, repeated again in the evening at Bicester Community College, to provide more details on progress made around the eco-development and to showcase plans for the redevelopment of Bicester Town centre.