RESIDENTS across the city have welcomed the new designs for Oxford’s five tower blocks.

Oxford City Council has revealed the final designs for Plowman Tower, Foresters Tower and Hockmore Tower.

Blackbird Leys residents still need to choose the final colours for Evenlode and Windrush Towers, after the proposed bright green and purple exteriors were scrapped.

In a final consultation on Thursday, people can choose from three different colour schemes – blue, green and red.

The chosen colours will go on the balconies, while the main towers will be painted two different shades of grey.

The new last-minute designs were drawn up after residents disapproved of the brighter green and purple designs last month.

All of the towers will have their balconies enclosed, with large glass windows to create a small conservatory space.

Plowman Tower resident James Kiely said he was not sure about the new balconies.

He said: “We do have a bird problem, which is why people want them enclosed, but who’s going to clean up the mess on the glass made by the birds?

“I want to know how much we can open the windows to get fresh air in.”

Residents will also receive new roofs, windows, insulation, improvements to fire safety systems, and new parking and bin facilities, as part of the revamp.

The council said there will also be “substantial improvements” to the communal lobbies, which will become “more attractive” and “secure”.

Scott Seamons, board member for housing and estate regeneration, said: “This is an exciting and ambitious project.

“There are over 700 residents whose living standards will be enhanced through this refurbishment project.

“We have been working closely with them through consultation, regular updates, and by recruiting block representatives from each of the tower blocks who will be involved with us on all aspects of the project.”

James Keaveney is the new block representative for Hockmore Tower.

He said: “I will have much more awareness of what is going on with the refurbishment. I have a really good relationship with other residents and I look forward to being able to keep them informed.”

The £18.36m work is due to start in spring 2015 and is expected to last for three years.

Where to see the exhibition

RESIDENTS can see plans for their new-look homes at exhibitions next week:

  • Plowman Tower: Tower Base Play, Monday, 5pm to 8pm
  • Foresters Tower: Wood Farm Children’s Centre, Tuesday, 4pm to 7pm
  • Hockmore Tower: Templars Square Shopping Centre, Wednesday, 3pm to 6pm
  • Evenlode and Windrush Towers: Blackbird Leys Community Centre, Thursday, 
  • 4pm to 7pm

 

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