University takes over hospital site

7:30am Sunday 11th February 2007

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THE redevelopment of the historic Radcliffe Infirmary site by Oxford University is likely to provide good news for pedestrians and cyclists.

The former hospital buildings between Woodstock Road and Walton Street, Jericho, were officially handed over to Oxford University.

Last month, services housed at the Radcliffe Infirmary were switched to the new £130m West Wing at the John Radcliffe Hospital, which includes the new £30m Children's Hospital.

In the handover ceremony, the university's Vice-Chancellor, Dr John Hood, was given the key to the site by Trevor Campbell Davis, the chief executive of the Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust.

Three years ago, Oxford University bought the 10.5-acre site from the trust for £40m and leased it back to the trust.

Dr Hood said: "This is a historic moment both for the university and the city of Oxford.

"We are excited to be able to take over this important location at the heart of the city, and develop it to the benefit of the university and the city.

"It will allow us to develop new research centres and consolidate a number of existing teaching and research facilities in line with our strategic plans over the next 20 years."

Dr Hood confirmed that the public would be able to walk through the site, but precise details on access will not be revealed until consultation on a 'master-plan' begins in the spring.

He added that the "early thinking" centred on a centre for humanities and a mathematical institute.

Mr Campbell Davis added: "The Radcliffe Infirmary has been at the heart of medical excellence and research in Oxford for centuries.

"We are pleased to be able to pass the historical importance of this building to the university, who will continue to use it to benefit the community of Oxford."

The masterplan is expected to sketch out ideas for enhancing all listed buildings by opening up the site, and creating through roads for pedestrians and cyclists.

But the masterplan has not yet been finally approved by the University's Council.

Part of the Radcliffe Infirmary site will be used for a purpose-built health centre, paid for by the university.