Residents in Thame can give their opinion on where the town's Cattle Market should be relocated in a new consultation by South Oxfordshire District Council.

A questionnaire will provide people with an opportunity to state which sites they think would best accommodate the cattle market and why.

An information leaflet which identifies thirteen potential new sites has also been published.

The consultation has arisen out of the need to secure the future of the cattle market, which is important to Thame and the wider district, as it is one of the few remaining in the south of England.

It needs a new home as there is limited capacity to provide better facilities on the existing site, due to its size and location on the edge of the town centre.

John Cotton, Cabinet member for planning at SODC, said: "The council understands just how important Thame Cattle Market is to Thame and the surrounding areas.

"We also appreciate that any new site will have impacts for any immediate neighbours.

"We want to ensure that local residents are provided with the opportunity to have their say on all potential options."

Included as one of the thirteen potential sites is Thame Showground site, which has already been refused planning permission twice because the council thought it detracted from the rural character of the area.

SODC says it has included it to ensure 'a complete and comprehensive consultation.'

Another site suggested is land west of Rycote Lane, for which a planning application will be determined next month.

The information leaflet states that the outcome of the consultation 'can contribute to the consideration of this application.'

The council says it looked at all possible sites on the edge of Thame, excluding all land in the floodplain, with no access or designated as sports ground.

Land to the west of Thame Park Road was also ignored as it was felt it would be difficult to accommodate the size of site required.

Thame Mayor, David Bretherton, said: "I think there's only going to be two or three realistic sites but it is really going to be nice to hear the views of the town, although I feel they will be polarised views."

He added that he was pleased the district council appeared committed to keeping the cattle market in the Thame area.

"It is hugely important because if we lose it local farmers will have to travel huge distances to take their animals to market, it just would not be sustainable."

The questionnaire and accompanying information leaflet is available from the district and town council offices, at Thame Library, and online at www.southoxon.gov.uk/haveyoursay.

The council is also holding an exhibition on April 14 at Thame Town Council, where residents can view information on the potential sites, speak to council officers, and give their opinion on their preferred option.

The consultation ends on April 22.

Where do you think Thame Cattle Market should be relocated? We want your views.

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