Bodleian Library expansion denied

A public inquiry has ruled against Oxford University’s plans for its world-famous Bodleian Library.

The university, which hoped to build a £29m depository at Osney Mead to house eight million books, said the ruling was a “great disappointment”.

The project was approved by councillors in a narrow vote last year, but it was put on hold when critics said the building would ruin Oxford’s skyline.

Councillors shelved the plans in a new vote, sparking the university’s appeal.