Welcome to Stavertonia. Ever wondered where University College students find a home away from the High Street. It’s right here. Stavertonia, fondly called Stavs, is that place.
Stavertonia is the University College Annexe. It is a student accommodation complex. Most of it was built from 1967. Sir Philip Dowson designed the new buildings. He was an alumnus of University College.
Let’s take a quick journey back in time. In 1953, University College bought Staverton House at 104 Woodstock Road. The house was close to Staverton Road. It was converted into flats. Lord Beveridge lived here. He was the Master of University College from 1937 to 1945.
Stavertonia also includes Redcliffe-Maud House. It was formerly 100A Woodstock Road. This house was built in the garden of 100 Woodstock Road. It is named after Lord Redcliffe-Maud. He was a Master of University College.
Stavertonia is expanding. It’s becoming Univ North. The expansion stretches to Banbury Road. The site is growing by 8000 square meters. It originally spanned 12000 square meters. This project aims to enhance the residential, communal, and garden spaces.
Did you know that Stavertonia faced some opposition during its development? In fact, a plan for 150 new student flats faced resistance from North Oxford residents. They worried about the loss of trees. They also worried about the impact on the area’s Victorian architecture. Despite these concerns, the project was approved.
The expansion plans included cutting down 132 trees. Many were considered poor quality. They were replaced with native trees. A biologist contested the college’s claim of a net increase in biodiversity. However, planning officers were not convinced.
One councillor raised concerns about hidden streams. She suggested a survey for potential flooding. But her concerns were dismissed based on advice from official groups.
Interestingly, a PR firm produced a glossy brochure. It was to promote the plans. This brochure was delivered to nearby residents. The newsletter highlighted the need for student housing in Oxford. It claimed the new buildings would complement local architecture.
Despite the college’s efforts, many residents felt unheard. They worried about the impact on the community. They believed the development would damage the North Oxford Victorian Suburb Conservation Area.
Today, Stavertonia stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of Oxford’s student life. It reflects the tensions between progress and preservation. Stavertonia provides accommodation and fosters a sense of community for University College students. It also sparked debates about development in a historic area. As Univ North takes shape, it will be interesting to see how it integrates with the surrounding neighborhood. The next generation of students will call Stavertonia home.