Mace has successfully secured a substantial contract worth £184 million for a new development at the Oxford Science Park.
- The construction involves three laboratory and office buildings, adding 400,500 sq ft of space.
- Designed by Scott Brownrigg and engineered by Campbell Reith, these buildings feature advanced structural designs.
- Sustainability highlights include the UK’s largest use of recycled aluminium in curtain walling.
- Completion of the project is anticipated by the end of 2026, marking it as a significant milestone.
Mace has triumphantly been granted an expansive £184 million contract to advance the facilities at the Oxford Science Park, an institution primarily owned by Magdalen College, aimed at promoting research and innovation. This notable undertaking, known as the Daubeny Project, initiates the construction of three sophisticated laboratory and office buildings designed to bolster the science and biotechnology sectors’ growth.
This development promises a considerable addition of approximately 400,500 square feet of premium laboratory and office space, indicative of the project’s vast scale and significance. Architectural insights are furnished by Scott Brownrigg, while the engineering expertise is facilitated by Campbell Reith, ensuring the project meets both aesthetic and functional objectives.
The intricate design of the buildings comprises multi-storey edifices with undercroft parking, enhanced by pedestrian-friendly landscaped areas. The construction will employ insitu reinforced concrete superstructure frames, supported by advanced post-tensioned concrete raft foundations. This will be strategically reinforced by rigid inclusions to manage settlements, particularly where alluvial soil is prevalent.
A distinct architectural feature is the inclined steel columns, rising from ground level to the second floor, set within a modern glass and metal façade. This creative approach not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the park’s innovative environment.
Sustainability is a core facet of the project, incorporating photovoltaic energy solutions alongside the pioneering application of recycled aluminium for its curtain wall systems, claimed to be the largest of its kind in the UK.
Rory Maw, Chief Executive of the Oxford Science Park, enthusiastically highlighted Mace’s pivotal role, stating, “Mace’s knowledge and expertise in large-scale construction projects will be crucial to helping us deliver The Daubeny Project, our most ambitious development to date.” His remarks underline the park’s strategic intent to offer crucial space for the burgeoning life sciences and biotech industries.
The anticipated culmination of this ambitious development is set for late 2026, aligning with the park’s broader strategy of fostering an innovative ecosystem capable of supporting diverse scientific enterprises.
The Daubeny Project exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to supporting scientific innovation and expansion within Oxford.
