Visually exciting plan (From The Oxford Times)

Visually exciting plan

8:00am Thursday 16th August 2012 in Letters

Sir – I agree wholeheartedly with the sentiments contained in Laura King’s letter (August 9) about Harris Manchester College’s proposed redevelopment of one of its buildings located to the rear of Holywell Street (actually in Mansfield Road).

The proposed design is not only exciting visually and appropriate contextually, but the college and its agent (Yiangou Architects LLP) should be congratulated also on their restraint in relation to the scale of the proposal, avoiding the over-development which is often associated with such applications.

However, I urge Miss King, and others of a similar view, to send their comments to Oxford City Council (as I have done) because opponents of the project will be far more motivated to articulate their objections to the planning authority than are those disposed towards it (a simple reflection of human nature) and without demonstrable support this innovative design might not materlialise, which would be extremely regrettable in my opinion.

For those interested, the planning reference number is 12/01792/LBC and comments can be submitted online easily at Oxford City Council’s website (where visitors can also view detailed design documents — the north and east street elevations in particular illustrate well just what a gem this building might be if approved).

Robert King, Barkham, Wokingham