A CONSERVATION group has said historically important sections of The Randolph Hotel were left largely unscathed by last week’s major fire.

The blaze which started in the ground floor kitchen last Friday spread upwards through ducts and ravaged part of the historic building’s roof.

But although repairs to the 19th-century hotel are expected to cost millions, Historic England buildings expert David Brock said his organisation was not seriously concerned.

The building, designed by William Wilkinson, is Grade II-listed and considered to be a good example of Victorian Gothic architecture.

Mr Brock added: “The Randolph is a rambunctious piece by Wilkinson, who designed many homes in North Oxford.

“It is in the same tradition as ‘Gothic horror’ type buildings and it stands in fascinating contrast with the Ashmolean Museum opposite.

“It is well worth its listing and we are very glad the fire did not spread horizontally through its rooms. We have made clear twe can offer expert advice with repairs if necessary, but given that – from a heritage point of view – the damage caused is not very serious, we won’t be pushing for that.”

His comments came as contractors continued to carry out essential work at the hotel, ahead of larger repairs set to begin next week.

Hotel general manager Michael Grange said yesterday it was now hoped it would reopen next Saturday.