Plans have been approved for a new landmark timber cycle pavilion in the heart of Oxford North to provide secure spaces as part of Oxford’s new £700m innovation district.
The striking pavilion has been designed by the project’s planners Fletcher Priest Architects on behalf of Oxford North Ventures, the joint venture company of Thomas White Oxford, the development company of St John’s College and London-based developer Stanhope.
The prominent two-storey building, which was inspired by wheel spokes, will be located in the new market square, alongside the Red Hall and central park.
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The new pavilion, approved by the city council, will provide 191 first-floor secure long-stay cycle spaces dedicated to people working in the Red Hall and other buildings.
It will include a 'power gully' on the stairs to assist in carrying bicycles, along with ground-floor short-stay spaces and a bike repair station.
End-of-trip facilities will be in the basement of the adjacent Red Hall with 16 showers and changing facilities.
Vertical timber battens will surround the upper storey and provide views across the market square to create what has been described as a "warm lantern effect" in the evening.
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In addition to the architectural design, the project team has included sustainability, accessibility and inclusive design consultants as well as lighting, fire and security engineers.
David Camp, chief executive officer for Stanhope said: “This decision is great news for cyclists. Our project is focused on transforming local travel habits and making cycling more convenient and sustainable for those working and visiting in the future.
“We have positioned the pavilion in a key location at the masterplan’s heart to celebrate the bicycle as a mode of sustainable transport.
"The circular timber structure will act as a focal point, adjacent to the recently consented, enhanced and expanded Red Hall, the central landscape and market square.
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Philip Pryke, senior associate for Fletcher Priest Architects, added: “We are thrilled that our designs for Oxford North’s new timber cycle pavilion have been given the green light.
"With Oxford one of the UK’s leading cycling cities, it will give bicycle use the prominence it deserves within the new urban district being created."
Oxford North’s Phase 1a is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2025.
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Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here.
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