Oxford's crumbling Castle Mound is once again open to the public as county council leaders wait to find out how much it will cost to repair.

At the end of February, there were a series of landslips on the New Road side of the mound, and safety fencing was erected along the pavement.

Protective sheeting was also placed on top of the mound to prevent rain from seeping in and causing more damage, and the landmark was closed to the public.

At the weekend, fencing was placed on the mound to ensure members of the public would not stray into the affected area, and it was then reopened.

For the admission fee of £1, visitors can climb to the top of the mound and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

County council leader Keith Mitchell has described the mound as "an Oxford icon" and pledged to fund any necessary repairs from the council's property budget.

He said yesterday: "Contractors should provide an estimate later this week on how much it will cost to carry out the necessary work and I imagine it will not be cheap.

"However, we have collected more business rates than we expected this year and we can use that funding to help pay for the repairs.

"There will be competitive tenders and it could be a major job. I'm pleased members of the public have been allowed back on the mound because it's such a lovely view from the top."

The boundary wall that separates the mound from New Road collapsed on to the pavement in 1971 and was replaced by a reinforced concrete retaining wall.

The Castle Mound was built in the 11th century, and was still being used for public hangings until 1863.