Radcliffe Observatory conservation project
In a city blessed with significant buildings and monuments at every turn, the Radcliffe Observatory is remarkable both because of its international importance, and because it is relatively unknown.
However, the Radcliffe Observatory requires conservation repairs, infrastructure upgrades and environmental sustainability measures, to preserve its status and function. These include:
- Internal and external conservation work, primarily on the roof, doors, window frames and the staircase
- Improving the environmental efficiency of the Observatory, though replaced glazing, and upgrading the heating system
- Improving accessibility and use of the building, including the installation of an access ramp and upgrading the acoustics in the Dining Hall.
Green Templeton needs to secure significant funding for this conservation and improvement work to be undertaken. This will not only preserve this iconic building, but also secure it as an integrated functional asset that is part of the college’s estate masterplan.
A campaign to secure the required funds is in the advanced stages of planning and will be launched during 2024. If you would like to hear more about the campaign please email Director of Development and Alumni Relations Ceri Butcher.
Support Radcliffe Observatory conservation project
On the project
‘On the 250th anniversary of the Radcliffe Observatory’s first use for astronomical observations, the importance of conserving this historic landmark is greater than ever.’
Mike Edmunds, President, Royal Astronomical Society
‘It is in so many ways a building of the Enlightenment – built when it was, as a place of science, and its architecture so elegant, harmonious and optimistic.’
Colin Bundy, founding Principal, Green Templeton College
‘The ultimate goal of the college masterplan for the Radcliffe Observatory site is to restore the central building as a social and learning hub – housing a world class library environment, offering meeting spaces in the wings and making possible again the utilisation of the grand south entrance.’
Ingrid Petit, Feilden Fowles Architects
