Significant progress has been made in the expansion of The Oxford Science Park (TOSP), one of Europe’s leading locations for science and technology companies, with the submission of detailed planning applications for three new laboratory and office buildings on Plots 23-26. The submission follows a successful public consultation with the local community and the Park’s occupiers. The 400,000 sq ft of laboratory and office facilities, due to start construction in 2023 and be completed at the end of 2024, will provide vital space for growth of existing Park occupiers and new companies coming to TOSP. They are expected to create highly skilled local jobs and a significant boost to the regional economy, as well as furthering Oxford’s reputation for improving global health and well-being.
In the plans, the new R&D facilities are designed to provide a compelling work environment in close proximity to outside space for relaxation and exercise. Biodiversity will be protected and enhanced throughout the development, which will target an Excellent rating under the construction industry’s sustainability standard, BREEAM. This will include sustainable design and reduction of carbon use during construction.
The project team for Plots 23-26 consists of: Architects and Interior Designers – Scott Brownrigg; Project Managers – Bidwells; MEP Consultants – Hoare Lea; Structural Engineers – Campbell Reith; Planners – Savills; Cost Consultants – Alinea; Ecologists – MK Ecology; and Landscapers – McFarlane Associates.
Rory Maw, CEO of The Oxford Science Park, said, ‘We have been delighted with the positive response to the public consultation on our expansion plans, which cement TOSP’s position as a leading European science park. Submission of these detailed planning applications is an important step towards realising this exciting and urgently needed new development for the Oxford innovation ecosystem. With many of our occupiers having grown in size more than fivefold and continuing to expand, plus potential occupiers coming in from Oxford, the rest of the UK and across the world, the buildings on Plots 23-26 will help meet the demand for high quality laboratory and office space.’
