Our Response to the Public Consultation:
March 2025
Overall we are in support of the scheme, though we do have some concerns.
Whilst the proposed roof terrace may not harm views in towards the city, we are concerned that it would be visible from viewpoints within the city looking out. Roof terraces and gardens are uncharacteristic in Oxford and would distract from the historic views outwards of Oxford’s green setting. We recommend that a visual impact assessment is included in any application out to measure the impact of a roof terrace and garden would have on these historic views.
The courtyard to the rear of Speedwell House has partial views of Edwin Lutyens’ Campion Hall, the architects only building in Oxford, and Christopher Wren’s Tom Tower. We would like to see both of these views protected, as well as the openness of the historic courtyards to the rear of Speedwell House. Access for delivery vehicles and on-site parking will need to be carefully managed in this courtyard to ensure pedestrian priority.
We are pleased to see a public use proposed for the south western corner of the building. It is important that façade design and landscaping translate this, making the public use clear.
It’s refreshing to see that this proposal doesn’t seek to increase the buildings height or massing and we are convinced that the proposed improvements will have a positive effect on the surrounding public realm. It is however unfortunate that the section of the building owned by Queens College will not also receive a similar upgrade, especially given that the building reads as one.