Mace has been appointed to deliver the next phase of development at Oxford University’s Begbroke Science Park.
The contract with the university’s property company (OUPD), a joint venture with Legal & General, is the start of a £100 million investment which will bring about 135,000 sq ft in two lab-enabled buildings, one for academics and the other a commercial centre for companies seeking to forge links.
The scheme, designed by NBBJ, is on course for practical completion in 2024. OUPD expects it to achieve BREEAM Excellent and be WELL Gold Enabled. It will include a new cycle link between Begbroke Science Park and Kidlington as well as a work of public art by Assemble.
OUPD chief executive Anna Strongman said: “Begbroke has been a home of innovation for Oxford University for over 20 years, supporting spin-out and scale up businesses, attracting and retaining talent, and generating economic and social benefits.
“Our partnership will deliver the further space needed to build on that success. These two new buildings will provide further much-needed academic and commercial spaces by 2024.”
Mike Coplowe, senior development manager for Legal & General, said: “The first phase of the scheme will bring forward new research facilities, as well as providing space to incubate spin-out companies. Future phases will also seek to develop 2,000 new homes, with a mix of affordable tenures and subsidised key worker accommodation.
“These new facilities will help retain talent in the city, whilst driving essential inward investment and providing opportunities for world-leading innovation, as well as much needed housing for key workers.”
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