A NEW hall planned for Oriel College Students could become a 'landmark building'.

The hall will be built on the site of the former residential care home and convent, Nazareth House, in Cowley Road, Oxford.

Part of the care home will be demolished to make way for new buildings to house 60 students.

Old buildings on the site, including Larmenier House and 33-35 Rectory Road, will be home to 32 more students.

A 100-space cycle park is planned, and Oriel College is being asked for £7,085 towards cycle measures in Cowley Road.

Students will be banned from bringing cars to Oxford and those living in the newly-built Nazareth House will not be allowed to apply for residents' parking permits.

Oxford City Council's planning committee approved to the scheme yesterday, as long as the cycling and parking measures are met.

Planning officer Andrew Lewis said: "The design of the building is quite acceptable.

"It could well become a landmark building."

But Cllr Alan Pope asked the highways committee to look at using Oriel College's contribution to provide safe cycle routes.

He said: "I fear many of the students will come up Cowley Road and cycle across the pavement."

He was worried about students trying to avoid restrictions on turning.

But the committee welcomed the planned building.

Cllr/Mr John Tanner (Lab) said: "I think this is terrific and will enhance the Cowley Road in a way it really needs. It will be a tremendous improvement."

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