Proposals to reduce the visual harm of the Castle Mill flats in Oxford could include a colour change and tree planting. 

A public consultation this morning sought views on a number of techniques to mitigate the harm caused by the controversial student accommodation over Port Meadow.

The University proposed the measures - which could also include cladding and horizontal beams to "break up the vertical facade" - after a report in 2014 found the flats had harmed the views across the city and of St Barnabas Church.

The £6m screening option - one of the three suggested by the report, which also included changing the roof and removing the top floor - was approved by councillors in February. 

Campaign group Save Port Meadow preferred reducing the building height but this option, along with option two to change the roof, was rejected by the university.

Horizontal beams said to "break up the vertical facade" and therefore make the buildings appear smaller have also been suggested. 

Selected windows could also be fitted with automatic blinds activated at night-time and roof gables could be slatted or painted a darker colour. 

Following feedback from residents revised designs will be put forward at a second public consultation later in the year.