The next phase of development at Begbroke Science Park is set to start following the appointment of Mace to carry out the project. The London-headquartered global consultancy and construction firm was selected by Oxford University Property Development (OUPD). The latter is the project developer and a joint venture between Oxford University and Legal & General.
As part of the project, new research facilities with a total of 135,000 square feet will be built by Mace for Oxford University. The two structures were created by nbbj architects to meet demanding sustainability criteria, such as BREEAM Excellent and WELL Gold Enabled. Additionally, a new cycleway connection between Begbroke Science Park and Kidlingtonwill be developed. Furthermore, there will be a work of public art by the Turner Prize-winning artist collective Assemble.
The academic staff of the university will move into one building. Businesses seeking to expand and forge ties with academia will on the other hand move to the second structure. Early 2024 is the projected date for Begbroke Science Park’s next phase’s practical completion.
This contract is the first of a series of £100 million projects to expand the Science Park. Eventually, the projects will add another 135,000 square feet of space in total.
Plans in the pipeline to advance wider development outside the Begbroke Science Park
OUPD is reportedly developing plans to advance wider development outside the current boundaries of the Science Park. These plans are being developed in consultation with the local community and Cherwell District Council. They consist of the development of homes, additional research and development facilities, and commercial space.
The structure of the project was created by Oxford University Development (OUD), the delivery division of OUPD. Furthermore, the Begbroke Science Park project is in collaboration with Bruntwood SciTech and Oxford University. Legal & General placed the order and will be in charge of delivery.
Managing Director of Construction (PREACH) at Mace, Terry Spraggett, stated: “We’ll leverage our track record and experience in building the UK’s newest science testing facilities in electronics, satellites, and medical research, in close collaboration with the University of Oxford and L&G, to bring new research spaces for this esteemed academic institution. We are delivering the buildings at the science park to the highest sustainability and quality standards. This will be achieved by putting together a multidisciplinary team.”
