Change, even within the most sensitive areas, is inevitable. But we must manage this change to ensure character is conserved and enhanced in all townscapes— from our most historic town centres, to our Victorian suburbs and classic post-war planned estates..
This study provides a framework for the future of Oxford, helping to guide change in a way that maintains and enhances the City’s unique character. Walking the streets and getting to know this historic city inside out, LUC created a character map of the city as well as setting objectives and identifying opportunities for enhancement in each mapped area..
The assessment provides a tried and tested method for townscape characterisation that can be applied to other urban environments. It also provides an evidence base to inform Oxford City Council’s planning policies and to guide built development in the city. For example, the study is part of the evidence base for the emerging Oxford Core Strategy and the Council uses the information to inform their responses to planning applications.
