News from Old Headington Conservation Area
Much of the village of Old Headington, as distinct from the twentieth-century settlements of New Headington (or the equally historic Headington Quarry and Headington Hill), lies within the Old Headington Conservation Area. As a result of its traditional buildings, winding country lanes and green and leafy environment the conservation area is one of the most attractive areas of settlement within the city. It also has a rich and interest history, of which the streets and buildings provide a continuing and irreplaceable record.
The village was first designated as a conservation area in 1971 in recognition of its special historic and architectural interest. Since then it has expanded to include areas like Bury Knowle House and Park, parts of the John Radcliffe Hospital and fields and gardens on the northern fringe of the village, up to the ring road.
Oxford City Council are currently preparing an appraisal of the conservation area to help with its management and would be interested to receive comments from local people, including what they most value about the area and the issues they feel most deserve attention to ensure that its special value is preserved and enhanced. The appraisal will provide a detailed description of the special features of the area that should be protected including buildings, trees, open spaces and views. It will also help the Council to prepare management proposals to help resolve any negative features or issues.
As part of a continuing process of community involvement the City Council’s conservation officers will be holding a number of walking tours of the conservation area on Friday 10 September, to coincide with Oxford Preservation Trust’s Heritage Open Day. If you would like to have a better look around the conservation area on one of the walking tours or take part in its appraisal please email Robert Lloyd-Sweet (Conservation Officer) at Oxford City Council or telephone him on 01865 25 28 04.
You can find more information about conservation areas and how they work on Oxford City Council’s website or pick up a brochure from the Council’s planning office at Ramsay House, St Ebbe’s in the City Centre.
