By Elizabeth Hunter via SWNS
Plans to protect a world-famous pub frequented by J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis have been submitted.
The Eagle and Child in Oxford dates back to the 1650s and closed during the 2020 lockdowns – failing to reopen since.
The much-loved boozer – nicknamed by Oxford University students as the “bird and baby” – was made famous as the meeting location for Lord of the Rings author JRR Tolkien’s literary group called the ‘Inklings’.
Once an endowment belonging to Oxford’s University College since the 17th century, it was sold to nearby St John’s College in December 2003 for £1.2m.
It was later bought by the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT) – a Los Angeles-based medical tech firm founded by billionaire Larry Ellison.
EIT has now said they are “committed to reopening” the historic venue.
In documents submitted to Oxford City Council, the firm revealed the “pressing need” to protect the pub and surrounding buildings, which were in an “extremely poor” state.
“EIT is committed to reopening the Eagle and Child as a public house and the, honouring its historic and cultural legacy,” rhe document reads.
“As one of Oxford’s great social establishments with historic significance, this application has arisen out of a pressing need to prevent the buildings from further deteriorating.
“The current state of the buildings is vulnerable to water ingress causing substantial internal damage.
“As custodians, EIT feels a responsibility to preserve the building’s heritage by prioritizing immediate external repairs that seek to preserve the character of the heritage asset and enhance their long-term future.
“EIT is committed to carrying out sensitive repairs that allow the heritage values of these important Oxford buildings to be celebrated, and once again reopened for residents, tourists and the wider community to enjoy,”
The much-loved boozer – nicknamed by Oxford University students as the “bird and baby” – was made famous as the meeting location for Lord of the Rings author JRR Tolkien’s literary group called the ‘Inklings’.
Work that EIT are seeking permission for includes repairing and restoring original windows, and maintaining the stonework to prevent deterioration.
The council is expected to decide if the application for listed building consent in the following weeks.
