Work on the massive mixed-use Oxford North scheme could start in the Summer.

Thomas White Oxford (TWO), the development company of St John’s College, has submitted its enabling works reserved matters application to the city council and expects the new life sciences district to start within the next few months.

The council granted outline consent for the overall 64-acre masterplan and detailed consent for the first phase of development in the Central area in Spring.

The latest application covers earthworks, sustainable drainage ponds, landscaping and related initial infrastructure required for the new link road construction between the A40 and A44 for the first phase of development which will provide 140,000 sq ft of laboratories and workspace in three buildings along with the first section of the new public park.

TWO director William Donger said: “This is about kickstarting our investment into the project, local area and the city to prepare the site for Oxford’s new life sciences district.

“There has been significant consultation with Oxford City Council, and Oxfordshire County Council for highways, to ensure that the works proposed accord with the parameters assessed as part of our environmental impact assessment.

“The proposals will enable future development parcels to come forward without further significant earthworks being required.

“With Oxford experiencing high demand for lab and workspace from small, medium and large research companies and institutions, these works will enable us to start phase one to provide world-leading sustainable space to facilitate jobs and life-enhancing science and technology discoveries.”

The TWO team includes Fletcher Priest Architects, Stantec, Townshend Landscape Architects, Savills and Gardiner & Theobald. 

© Thames Tap (powered by ukpropertyforums.com).

Sign up to receive your free weekly Thames Tap newsletter here.