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The Oxford Castle Heritage Project is an extremely imaginative and sensitive mixed-use regeneration project that is set to become a model example of preservation, restoration, new build and the effective re-use of brownfield land. The ancient monuments and listed buildings that are housed on the site will be restored and integrated with new buildings to create an architecturally dynamic area in the heart of Oxford. Key Facts
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Oxford is a vibrant, multi-cultural city full of history and heritage. It is home to the oldest English speaking university in the world, renowned museums, charming shops and cafes, beautiful gardens and meadows, and much more. Within the heart of Oxford, which already has so much to recommend it, extraordinary and visionary plans to open up the castle and former prison are nearing completion. Long hidden from polite society, yet situated in the very heart of the city, the castle and prison occupy a surprising five acres. SEEDA's Investment SEEDA has invested £6 million in the project - £4.5 million to support The Osborne Group's development of the hotel and neighbouring public spaces, and £1.5 million for the restoration and adaptation of the Castle to accommodate a Heritage Centre and Museum, café, and Education Centre, to be managed by the Oxford Preservation Trust. This investment will help to ensure that the project fully realises its potential in respect of enhancing the local economy. The regeneration of the site will be a catalyst for new business investment, provide new homes, bring vibrancy to the site with the provision of public spaces, and create some 200 new jobs. Key Partners
SEEDA's Chairman Jim Brathwaite said: "This is an opportunity to make a real difference in a prime city centre location. The preservation of this important monument secures a piece of history for young and old alike, and the site's education centre will enable generations to come to understand, enjoy and access it. It really is a marvellous vision and SEEDA is delighted to be helping to make it happen." The Oxford Castle Heritage Project is an extremely sensitive and imaginative mixed use heritage development that will transform the goal and mound into a buzzing and architecturally dynamic public space in the heart of Oxford. Site History The development of Oxford Castle began in 1071 when Robert d'Oilly built Oxford Castle for William the Conqueror. The first record of its use as a goal was recorded in 1230. By the middle of the 15 th century, the castle had begun to fall into decay. In the 1770's, a prison report condemned the buildings, stating that years of neglect had made them unfit for human habitation. The site was reacquired by the Government and a major redevelopment programme ensued. In 1878, the Prison Commissioners took over the site and Her Majesty's Prison Oxford was established. The prison eventually closed in 1996. With the closure of the goal, a new chapter in its colourful history began to unfold. Freeholders of the site, Oxfordshire County Council, joined forces with The Osborne Group to add a new layer to its history. The Hotel At the heart of the scheme is the former prison which will, when converted, become a four star Malmaison hotel. The 87 roomed hotel will comprise a roof garden, wine bar and restaurant, a gym and treatment rooms. A great deal of the building's character will be retained and cells will be combined to form stylish bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Jestico + Whiles have been appointed to design the interior and aim to achieve a balance between the existing historical architecture and new modern chic. Useful Websites
Heritage Centre Residential Apartments Boutique Market
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