The council is reaffirming its commitment to improving the appearance of Pioneer Square and Crown Walk in Bicester following a meeting with the leaseholder yesterday.
Published: Friday, 27th February 2026
Cherwell District Council met with Town Centre Retail (Bicester) Limited on Thursday, 26 February to underline the importance of the Sainsbury’s-owned company putting a reliable cleaning programme in place.
Although Pioneer Square and Crown Walk are prominent public areas, they are managed privately, with the leaseholder having responsibility for emptying bins and clearing any accumulations of waste.
Councillor Lesley McLean, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Finance, Property and Regeneration, said: “I am very disappointed that, at yesterday’s meeting, the leaseholder refused to tell us how long it would take them to put a regular cleaning schedule in place. We’ve made very clear our expectations, and moreover, the expectations of the people of Bicester, who deserve a presentable, clean and attractive town centre.
“I am clear that our council tax payers can’t be expected to provide a free service to a large and profitable business. We are committed to making sure that, rather than a quick fix, a permanent solution is put in place.
“The council expects a further update from the leaseholders very promptly about what their plans are.”
As the landlord and local authority, the council has powers to step in and take action when a private leaseholder fails to meet their obligations. If there is evidence to trigger them, these powers can include community protection notices and fixed penalty notices. In 2022, a similar case resulted in Cherwell securing a prosecution of a private landowner.