Image credit: The Oxford Trust

The Oxford Trust has submitted plans to Oxford City Council for a new Aspen Building at the Wood Centre for Innovation in Headington. This initiative aims to expand laboratory and office space for science and tech start-ups, addressing the rising demand within the Headington Science Cluster.

The Aspen Building, named after Sir Martin Wood’s favourite tree, is designed to provide 12,926 sq ft (1,200 sq m) of flexible CL II laboratory and office space over two floors. It will also feature a new STEM resources and preparation room to support the Trust’s Science Oxford education programme, benefitting schools and communities across Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

Steve Burgess, CEO of The Oxford Trust, emphasised, “This multi-million pound investment funded by the Trust underlines our commitment to the Headington Science Cluster. The Aspen Building will mean we can continue expanding our support of science and tech start-ups by providing high-quality R&D lab and office space for grow-on companies to further scientific research and discovery, create local jobs, and contribute to Oxfordshire’s impressive wider innovation ecosystem.”

The Aspen Building will target BREEAM Excellent standards and include sustainable features like photovoltaic roof panels, a green wall, cycle parking, shower and locker facilities, and a 10% biodiversity net gain. Rainwater harvesting will provide grey water for toilets and additional flow for the site’s ponds.

Designed by ADP Architecture, the building will be located on the existing car park, ensuring it blends seamlessly with its surroundings. The project team also includes Carter Jonas, BSG Ecology, Landshape, Glanville, Gleeds, Sylva Trees, and CPW.

Glen Moses, architect and project director at ADP Architecture, stated, “Our brief was to design a new carbon-efficient building with flexible laboratory and workspace to both enhance the Wood Centre for Innovation site and sit beautifully within its surroundings. We have worked hard with the consultancy team and carried out public consultation with the Trust to ensure that the Aspen Building is low impact while helping to boost life-enhancing discovery.”

The Wood Centre for Innovation, opened in 2019 and serving as the Trust’s headquarters, currently hosts pioneering companies like DJS Antibodies and Helio Display Materials. This development is expected to further solidify Headington’s position in the UK’s property networking events and undoubtedly be mentioned at upcoming property networking events in Oxford.

This expansion not only supports the Trust’s mission but also aligns with local economic goals. The added infrastructure is expected to play a key role in the property construction conference circuit, driving further interest and investment in Oxford’s thriving science and technology sector.

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