Radcliffe Observatory Campaign: Phase 1
Thanks to the generosity of the Stephen A. Schwarzman Foundation, the college will be able to deliver Phase 1 of the Radcliffe Observatory Campaign. This will restore the south face of the Observatory with new landscaping and main entrance through the East Wing. This page provides the latest updates on works.
Updates
17 April
Scaffolding build to south underway with fencing back in place.
13 April
Landscaping now complete. Read the announcement and see more images
30 March
John Radcliffe statue in front of new entrance with works going on around.
26 March
Landscaping in front of new entrance really taking shape.
24 March
Scaffolding build underway on north lawn. More information
20 March
Shared space really starting to take shape.
11 March
Stone bench comprising of 13 1-ton stones now in situ.
6 March
Stone paving and steps continued to be laid in various areas this week.
27 February
New paths taking shape.
18 February
Careful relocation of the John Radcliffe statue successfully completed.
View this post on Instagram
9 February
Excavation works around statue completed ready for scheduled lift and metal edging starting to be installed along building perimeter.
30 January
Works this week included cable installation in the service trench and concrete being poured for the new wall and stairs.
23 January
Works this week included formwork for new steps, pedestrian gate removal and repairs to railings.
16 January 2026
Works this week included the tarmac edge being cut and the existing kerbs being removed. Protection has also been being installed to the ground floor windows and the previous gate has been removed.
w/c 5 January 2026
Diggers on site, clearing the lawn of the south side of the Observatory.
26 November
The college received the final necessary consents for a transformation at the Radcliffe Observatory. More information
21 November
The college has today received planning consent to begin the exciting transformation of the south landscape between the Observatory and the new Schwarzman Centre into a beautiful, usable garden space.
Initial activity is anticipated to begin on site from December, as the contractor begins preparations by setting up their works compound, installing metal mesh fencing, and relocating the car park entrance to a new position opposite the Maths building.
From January 2026, the landscape contractors will begin the main works, which include lifting the existing lawn and implementing the new design.
It is anticipated that this phase will be completed by the end of March 2026. Creation of the new college entrance in the East Wing on the ground floor of the Observatory, along with installing new accessible ramps on the northern side of the building, will follow from April 2026.
While these developments will bring some disruption, the college is working closely with the project team to keep this to a minimum and ensure the building remains fully usable.
23 October 2025
Applications for heritage and planning consent on the south aspect, and on the internal changes and north aspect, respectively, are under review with the relevant authorities.
Planned timeline
Starting January 2026
Works set to begin on landscaping to south of Observatory, including new entrance ramp
Starting April 2026
Works set to begin on ramps to north of Observatory in college garden and in East Wing to relocate Lodge
Background
For over 250 years, the Radcliffe Observatory has been a landmark of discovery, care, and community. The Radcliffe Observatory Campaign is now underway to ensure it continues to inspire for generations to come. The college is also actively pursuing Phase 2, a project to fund the conservation and decarbonisation of the building. The works needed are substantial and vital. More information
