This is an appeal to common values, common interests and common sense.

Our common home is Oxford, one of the world’s great cities. I am both a long-term resident and a member of the University. So are many of your readers.

The University’s construction works, have an enormous effect on the city.

It is reported that the Roger Dudman Way development has brought matters to a head: with the University portrayed as an unscrupulous despoiler, the city as a toothless guardian of Oxford’s heritage and the public mood wavering between disbelief and alienation.

Crises are opportunities. It is time for a change and for leaders to play a prominent role. They have the mix of prestige, experience and skill to find a proper way forward, prevent future disasters and rebuild trust.

Surely there should be regular meetings of city and University heads to agree sensible guidelines for construction work, monitor developments and identify impending problems.

To launch this process, there could be a public meeting at which the leaders of city and University set out their joint vision of the future of Oxford. This would not be easy; but, if successful, it would bring clarity, increased mutual understanding and greater transparency.

Surely no one can now argue that strengthened foresight and oversight over planning and construction are unnecessary. Ours is still a beautiful city, which we should all do our best to pass unspoilt to future generations. There is still a chance.

SIR DAVID MADDEN Oxford