Damien Maguire, Bicester South Town Councillor and your green candidate in 2026

If you live in Bicester South I suspect you and I have something in common. We’re both concerned about the scale of development proposed for Bicester South & Ambrosden.

I live on Graven Hill, and the proposed 435MW data centre nearby is particularly worrying. I’m not against progress — I’ve lived in Bicester for 11 years and welcomed many improvements.

But our population has grown by around 25%, to nearly 40,000, and infrastructure hasn’t kept up. We’re falling behind on green spaces and community facilities. Growth needs to be balanced — and right now, it isn’t. We need development that works for residents The proposed data centre could be one of the largest in Europe, using enough electricity to power around one million homes. That level of demand raises serious questions about energy use, sustainability, and whether developments of this scale are right for our area. It would also rely on backup diesel generators, with clear implications for air quality and the local environment. I understand the importance of technology — but developments of this scale must be properly thought through. I’m not yet convinced this one is. Experience that gives you a voice

As a Town Councillor and former Mayor, I’ve seen how quickly Bicester is changing. I sit on the planning committee, reviewing major applications and working with residents to understand their impact. I’m standing to take that experience further — and ensure our community has a stronger voice in decisions that affect us. Protecting what makes Bicester special I love Bicester.

It’s a town full of energy and community spirit. My priority is simple: support opportunities for local people while protecting the green spaces and quality of life that make this place special. Because growth should work for residents — not happen at their expense. Vote Green for a better Bicester!