Bid to save Jericho building from demolition (From Oxford Mail)

Bid to save Jericho building from demolition

5:26pm Thursday 17th December 2009 in News By Reg Little

David Clark outside the building which developers want to demolish

A CONSERVATIONIST is opposing plans to knock down an historic building in Oxford to make way for new shops and student homes.

A £15m scheme developers say will help restore Little Clarendon Street to its former glory has been submitted to city planners.

Shirehall Properties wants to build six shops, with 36 student rooms above, on the corner of Walton Street and Little Clarendon Street.

But the scheme is facing opposition over proposals to demolish the existing building, which has been boarded up in recent months.

David Clark, of Walton Street, who is a member of Oxfordshire Architectural and Historical Society, said: “I am very much against the demolition.

“The shop on the corner with its advertisement for Lumleys Tea is a striking part of the townscape.

“Ironically the shop window is now full of attractive murals celebrating shopping in Jericho.

“This corner does not look very run-down at all.”

He added: “It is quite likely that we will put in an objection and I’m sure that a lot of local residents will do so as well.

“I will certainly be investigating the history of this building. It is very much worth retaining.”

Oxford Civic Society Chairman Tony Joyce said: “One always regrets losing a building which has been a landmark for a great many years.

“On the other hand, this scheme is refurbishing other parts of the area which are in real need of a facelift.”

Project manager Kevin Minns defended the plans.

He said: “Over the past 10 years the area has become increasingly run-down.

“Number 127 Walton Street has remained vacant and, along with other buildings within the application, has deteriorated in condition.

“Our plan will revitalise this prominent corner of Oxford, re-invigorating the shopping experience for local people and visitors, while bringing back a sense of vibrancy.”

The company is seeking permission to refurbish and extend 123-125 Walton Street and demolish and rebuild 126-127 Walton Street and 32 Little Clarendon Street.

Mr Minns said the scheme would create a welcoming entrance to an important area of the city, which would in turn would attract retailers and encourage investment for further regeneration.

He added: “The scheme will complement work being carried out by the university at what was the neighbouring Radcliffe Infirmary site.”

It is proposed to cover the flat roofs dwith sedum, a plant that reduces rainwater run off.