Sir – Ruskin College’s attempt to eradicate Ruskin Fields and its natural beauty would have horrified Ruskin himself, who had a great belief in preservation of buildings and conservation.
Ruskin was a supporter of Octavia Hill a member of the Royal Commission on the Poor Laws and whose ideas formed the basis for modern social work. Hill opposed municipal provision of housing and had concerns about the availability of open spaces for the poor.
Her campaigns against development on suburban woodlands saved Hampstead Heath and Parliament Hill Fields.
She was a founder of the National Trust, which was set up to preserve places of historic interest or natural beauty for the enjoyment of the British public.
I hope that, on reflection, Ruskin will not be given cause to spin in his grave.
Dr Mike Bowen, Old Headington
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