Plans for changes to part of Bury Street Precinct were approved on 28 January 2026.
The application (P25/V0236/FUL) includes the demolition of existing kiosks and the erection of two new kiosks, a café seating area, a larger business, new benches and planters, a sculpture, and public art.
Planning officers concluded that the proposals would improve the appearance of the area. While the scheme involves the removal of a tree, officers judged that the overall benefits would outweigh this harm.
Since the planning application was submitted, there have been further changes within the area affected. Jhoots Pharmacy closed in August 2025, and the company subsequently went into administration nationally. Allied Pharmacies has since acquired many former Jhoots sites and plans to bring them back into operation.
Opposite the redevelopment area, 24 Bury Street, formerly the H. Samuel jewellery shop, is being subdivided into three separate units (24A, 24B and 24C) with individual entrances.
That northern end of the precinct certainly needs some rejuvenation, it’s looking very run down.
Do we know if Timpsons will be taking up one of the new kiosks? And who the mysterious “larger business” referred to is?
The TImpson’s beach hut is an absolute asset to the town. Must not be lost!
Subdividing units that are too small for major retailers and too big for independents is the way to go.
The big unit on the corner, (formerly Peacock/ Ellinburgh Wooden Mill) should be next. There are towns where this sort of redundant property has been transformed into something more akin to an indoor market with 10 to 15 stalls. Ideal for start ups.
Why not an antiques hall in the old Peacocks shop like other local towns? Shouldn’t we be marketing Abingdon as a tourist town, we have the beautiful river and parks.
Sorry to see the tree will be removed!
Gosh, I remember that being suggested back in 2003 (not in the Peacocks unit, obviously.) Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose.