Oxford Views Study

Oxford's 'dreaming spires' are internationally recognised symbols. The ability to gaze upon the city's domes, towers and spires from the surrounding countryside is valued by residents and visitors as a rich inheritance that should be carefully preserved for future generations.

The introduction of a views policy in 1962 aimed to protect Oxford's distinctive skyline from the impact of tall buildings. The Oxford Local Plan includes policies to safeguard the skyline's character and manage the specific characteristics of Oxford's view cones. The significance of the skyline is further underscored in the Core Strategy Policy CS18, which states that: "Views of the skyline of the historic centre will be protected."

However, it is recognised that these policies alone are not sufficient to understand and protect these views. With ongoing urban development challenges, Oxford City Council, Oxford Preservation Trust and English Heritage have collaborated to produce an Assessment of the Oxford View Cones.

This Assessment provides a foundational understanding of these views as key heritage assets of Oxford. It offers evidence and analysis, detailing the significance of each of the 10 protected views outlined in the Local Plan. This study is instrumental in evaluating the impact of new developments and guiding decisions to ensure the views' continued contribution to the city’s heritage.

Download the Oxford Views Study