The Radcliffe Observatory Quarter is set to see a significant enhancement following a generous benefaction and collaboration between the Friends of the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter and the University of Oxford.
From left to right: Ian Baxter, Chair of the Friends of the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter; Ashling Wall, Architect Heritage and Building Maintenance at University of Oxford’s Estates Services and Paul Rhymes, Head of Heritage & Building Maintenance at the University of Oxford’s Estates Service
A planning application has been submitted by the University to restore the historic Walton Street gates that once formed the entrance to the Radcliffe Infirmary Maternity Home. Opened in October 1931 by Elizabeth, Duchess of York, wife of future King George VI, and Sir William Morris, later Lord Nuffield, many Oxfordshire people were born there until its services transferred to the John Radcliffe Hospital in 1972.
The plans will bring the entrance back to life and improve both this historic corner of the Quarter and Jericho.
The restoration project has been made possible through a benefaction from Guy Francis, who has chosen to support the initiative in honour of his stepfather, the pioneering Professor Sir Robert Macintosh, first Nuffield Professor of Anaesthetics, University of Oxford and Radcliffe Infirmary between 1937 and 1965.
The project is one that the Friends of the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter have led and championed for some time. Following discussions with the Friends about the importance of restoring the gates Guy Francis was keen to support the initiative through his donation. Once complete, the gates will be known as the ‘Macintosh Gates’ with a plaque next commemorating the work of Professor Macintosh.
Ian Baxter, chair of the Friends of the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter said:
“We are delighted that this long-held ambition is moving forward. The Walton Street gates are an important reminder of the site’s history and their restoration will help enhance the character of both the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter and Walton Street in Jericho. We are extremely grateful to Guy Francis for his generosity and to the University of Oxford for taking the project forward.”
The University of Oxford will oversee and manage the restoration project, working to preserve an important piece of the site’s history for future generations.
Paul Rhymes, Head of Heritage & Building Maintenance at the University of Oxford’s Estates Services said: “We are delighted to be delivering this unique project and look forward to hearing the stories, memories and reflections that it inspires. The Maternity Gates are far more than just a historic feature; they are a symbolic entranceway to the ROQ, reflecting its former use and rich medical history. Revealing the gates and bringing them back to life will make a significant contribution to the site but also to the wider streetscape of Jericho.”
Further details of the restoration will be announced as the planning process progresses.
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