Lord Hague of Richmond, Chancellor of the University of Oxford, has opened a flagship £1.2 billion ($1.6 billion) global innovation district in Oxford in a boost to UK science, technology and AI sectors. 

Oxford North, approximately one million square feet in size, is equipped with newly developed labs and office accommodation. The site will cater to the whole science, technology and AI ecosystem, from start-ups and spin outs through to global giants, offering the full lifecycle of space, from fitted labs and turnkey solutions through to grow-on space and bespoke buildings.  

The development is well-positioned to capture the growing demand from a broad spectrum of companies, led by those in the AI, quantum computing, biotech and foodtech sectors, to help support the growth of the UK’s life science, technology and innovation industries. 

Oxford North has been backed by Oxford North Ventures, a joint venture (JV) between Thomas White Oxford, the development company of St John’s College, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, a leading global investor, and development and asset manager Stanhope. 

The site will include an 80-seat café, 100-seat townhall and touch-down co-working space, a central 2,000 sqm square, as well as Fallaize Park, a two-acre public park featuring Your planetary assembly, the first permanent public work in the UK by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson.  

Since August 2021, more than 2,000 construction personnel have been working on the site, including over 50 apprentices, and the district is forecast to boost the economy by £150 million ($202 million) per year in GVA. 

Lord Hague of Richmond said: “We’re here to celebrate this iconic addition to the region’s innovation landscape. Oxford is a unique hub with an exceptional 900-year history, and is synonymous with life-changing scientific and technological breakthroughs. The continued investment into next generation infrastructure and inclusive opportunities such as Oxford North means this an exciting time to be part of this city.” 

 

Bruno Quinney, Content Team, DDW