Application: 

25/01062/FUL | Internal and external alterations and extensions to the History of Science Museum, including removal of external steps to basement and first floor from Broad Street and formation of a covered roof extension over the front lightwell; installation of Juliet Balcony at first floor; removal and rebuilding of existing rear lightwell extension; erection of rear extension to provide lift to all floors; removal of existing platform lift, steps and railings and installation of new railings, door and other alterations within Sheldonian Yard, alterations to existing basement under Broad Street, secondary and replacement glazing; roof alterations; new hard landscaping, drainage and other associated works. (amended description). | Museum Of The History Of Science Broad Street Oxford Oxfordshire OX1 3AZ

25/01063/LBC | Internal and external alterations and extensions to the front and back of the History of Science Museum, Broad Street. | Museum Of The History Of Science Broad Street Oxford Oxfordshire OX1 3AZ

Our Response:

June 2025

This is a complex case. We appreciate the Museum’s willingness to engage in dialogue about its proposals and recognise the adjustments made in response to comments made by us and other parties. Whilst we support the need to improve the museum’s facilities (and especially its accessibility provision), we remain concerned about the impact of the proposed works on the exterior of the highly sensitive Grade I listed building and on Broad Street.

Museum Building

The impact of the external proposals (to remove the external staircase and insert a glazed roof to the courtyard) would be considerable, effecting a significant change to the Broad Street elevation. We acknowledge that there have been several major alterations to this elevation during the last 200 years, including the insertion of at least two staircases. The removal of the existing stair (added in the 1950s) can thus perhaps be justified. The glass enclosure, however, is more problematic as it would partly obscure – and would fundamentally change – the historic north elevation and its relationship to its highly significant setting.

We support the proposed internal works, including the insertion of a lift. But we’re unable to offer unqualified support for a scheme which will have such significant impacts on the building and the surrounding public realm. It is unfortunate that an alternative, less invasive, approach couldn’t be reached.

Ultimately a planning ‘balance’ judgement needs to be made. Do the proposed benefits outweigh the harm to the nationally significant heritage asset? At this stage we are not 100% convinced that they do, but perhaps with no other viable option on the table this is the best possible solution to achieve all the aims of the museum.

Public Art

We strongly object to the proposed public art element, located as it would be within a setting which could hardly be more sensitive. Given the highly significant Broad Street context – and without any details of scale, materials or design – our view is that this should not be approved.

The introduction of an artwork on a tall (2m+) plinth would dominate the public realm, with potential impacts on the setting and views of the Sheldonian as well the Museum. It would obscure views of the Grade I listed ‘Sheldonian Heads’ from both ends of Broad Street. Views out from the public realm surrounding the Sheldonian, out through the gate and onto Broad Street, could also be obscured and blocked.

Twenty years ago Kim Wilkie’s ‘Broad Street Plan’, developed with the support of multiple local stakeholders, advocated the removal of clutter, signage and unnecessary street furniture in order to enhance and clarify the beauty of this world-class street. Council officials and members are aware that we’re keen to see the Plan implemented in consultation with stakeholders. In the meantime, our view is that its recommendations should be given weight when considering development proposals in Broad Street.