A new waterfront development has officially opened to the public

On Saturday (July 2) the whole of Banbury was invited to join in the free celebrations to mark the completion of Castle Quay’s canal side redevelopment, The Waterfront.

The canal-side was adorned with replicas of some of the most iconic movie vehicles of all time including the infamous bat mobile, the Ecto-1 Ghostbusters car and the jeep wrangler from Jurassic Park.

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Even dinosaurs descended on the town, to celebrate the opening of Jurassic World Dominion which will show at The Light.

Bicester Advertiser: A dinosaur named Tiny appeared at the event A dinosaur named Tiny appeared at the event

Film inspired characters from Batman, Ghostbusters, Harry Potter and Jurassic Park wandered around Castle Quay and the Waterfront entertaining visitors and even stopping for a selfie.

The Waterfront also had a selection of movie themed props including a paparazzi wall, director’s chair, clapper board, film camera and spotlight which people could take pictures with.

Bicester Advertiser: The redevelopment features PizzaExpress and The LightThe redevelopment features PizzaExpress and The Light

Councillor Ian Corkin, deputy leader of Cherwell District Council and portfolio holder for regeneration and economy, said: “The feedback since The Light opened in June has been incredible - it is a superb attraction, in a flagship development, that will cater for the whole family from day to night – every day of the week.

Bicester Advertiser: Massive movie characters could be spotted around the area Massive movie characters could be spotted around the area

“This development transforms the town and brings a whole new shopping and leisure dimension to the people of Banbury. I am very proud of what has been achieved and now it’s time for everyone to enjoy what’s on offer.”

Alper Zan, senior business manager at The Light, said: “We have been blown away by the welcome we have received since opening and are delighted to be part of the Waterfront’s opening events. 

“Whether you want to watch a film, climb, or bowl, have a bite to eat in our Diner, or to enjoy a cocktail in one of our bars or outside seating areas, we’ve got something for everyone.”

Bicester Advertiser: The redevelopment opened with a huge eventThe redevelopment opened with a huge event

Prior to the event, Oliver Wren, centre director for Castle Quay, said: “This event is a real celebration of everything we’ve achieved over the last few years and marks the end of a unique and exciting redevelopment project. We have pulled out all the stops to ensure this is a sensational and memorable event for everyone.”

This event will be followed by a VIP launch on Thursday 7 July, during which invited guests will enjoy welcome drinks, food and a tour of The Light’s seven screen cinema, ten lanes of bowling, a retro arcade, a top-quality climbing centre, interactive darts, a karaoke room, diner, American pool tables and much more.

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This story was written by Sophie Perry. She joined the team in 2021 as a digital reporter.

You can get in touch with her by emailing: sophie.perry@newsquest.co.uk

Follow her on Twitter @itssophieperry

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