Original Coverage & Source Attribution: www.heraldseries.co.uk
Odeon Oxford in George Street closed at the end of January to make way for controversial plans to demolish the building and redevelop it.
Oxford City Council approved the Marick Read Estate plans to build the “design-led”, 145-unit “lifestyle” aparthotel called Wilde Oxford.
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Construction work started this summer, with Watkin Jones Group taking charge of the project, and the bulldozers have now moved in – with demolition starting close to the entrance of Gloucester Green market.
Traders at the market, off George Street, who trade from Wednesday to Saturday, are watching the building work carefully.
The former Odeon cinema in George Street is being demolished (Image: Andy Ffrench)
One trader said earlier: “It’s still early days with the demolition work.
“Yes we can keep trading but we want to keep a close eye on whether the entry points to the market are affected – it’s such a huge project.”
The new building may not be completed until late 2027.
A city council spokesman said: “Marick Real Estate announced the appointment of Watkin Jones Group as construction partner this week, with hoardings installed and the start of demolition planned for later in the summer.
“An aparthotel that blends the traditional hotel experience with the space of private apartments, Wilde Oxford has been designed with welcoming social spaces designed to bring guests, locals and visitors together to meet, work and connect.
“There is also a 400 square metre community space, which is being developed in partnership with Makespace Oxfordshire – a versatile space that will serve as a hub for a wide variety of community activities.
“The Gloucester Green market and all surrounding businesses will remain open and operational throughout the construction works, and we will continue to work with them to minimise any impact.”
The former Odeon cinema in George Street is being demolished (Image: Andy Ffrench)
Watkin Jones is the UK’s 54th largest contractor by turnover, according to the latest CN100, an industry chart.
The aparthotel will feature about 145 rooms, and these will be built on the upper five storeys of the building, with a reception on the ground floor, including a bar and café.
Aparthotel rooms are different from those at a normal hotel as they offer furnished apartments, with an ensuite kitchen featuring a cooker and fridge.
The former Odeon cinema is being demolished (Image: Andy Ffrench)
Ed Turner, cabinet member for asset management, said earlier that Wilde Oxford will bring investment, new jobs and “high-quality” accommodation to the city centre.
He added: “We know neighbours may be worried about disruption during the construction phase, so I’m glad to see that clear plans are in place to minimise this and continue the open communication with residents, market traders and local businesses.
“Keeping Gloucester Green market and surrounding shops open throughout the works is especially important, and we will continue working closely with everyone involved to make sure the area remains a vibrant and welcoming place.”
A council spokesman added: “Demolition of the old building is expected between September and December, with construction work, including piling, foundations and concrete frame, expected to start in the new year.”
Odeon George Street was built in 1935-1936 as Ritz Cinema, replacing a former cinema built in 1912.
It was renamed the ABC cinema in 1963, and renamed the Odeon George Street in 2000.
