CAMPAIGNERS against the controversial Castle Mill flat blocks must feel like they can smell the scent of University of Oxford fear in their nostrils following the appeal by the vice-chancellor to its “parliament”.

Professor Andrew Hamilton has asked the university’s Congregation not to back a motion that could force it to chop a floor off six of the eight buildings in Roger Dudman Way that protesters say loom horrifically over Port Meadow.

Prof Hamilton says the university does not have the spare £30m it has estimated such action would be required, nor should it put buildings above students.

Opponents may point out that it is not buildings but about a perceived damage to the city’s skyline and views and the shambolic handling by the city council that are the sticking points.

But more importantly protesters from the Save Port Meadow movement will take heart that the vice-chancellor has felt the need to speak out.

There is clearly concern that the Congregation vote will go against the university management.

We now await to hear what the university’s ‘real voice’ says.