The Crown Estate has taken a significant step towards expanding the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire by acquiring a 221-acre plot of land. This new site, known as Harwell East, is intended for the development of approximately 4.5 million square feet of office, laboratory, and manufacturing space, as well as up to 400 residential units.
Currently utilized as farmland, this site will enhance the extensive holdings of the Crown Estate, which manages land and property for the royal family. Located adjacent to the existing Harwell campus, it is already home to notable organizations, including vaccine manufacturer Moderna and the UK Space Agency. In the past two years, more than 50 organizations have established a presence in this thriving scientific hub.
The development of Harwell East is expected to address the increasing demand for laboratory and advanced manufacturing spaces, particularly for early-stage companies that are struggling to find suitable locations in areas like Oxford. The Crown Estate is currently pursuing the necessary planning permissions to proceed with construction.
According to Dan Labbad, chief executive of the Crown Estate, “The UK”s science, innovation and technology community is pushing the boundaries of progress in areas from AI to advanced manufacturing. But they need the specialized lab facilities and housing to realize potential.” He emphasized that the goal of Harwell East is to create an environment where scientific advancements can thrive, contributing to regional growth and benefiting the entire nation.
Science Minister Lord Vallance also expressed support for the initiative, stating, “Opening up Harwell East could help the brilliant businesses and innovators based here to expand and tackle the great challenges of our era, with access to the labs, facilities, and homes they need to do their work.” He highlighted the economic potential of the site, reinforcing the commitment to unlocking the Oxford-Cambridge growth corridor, which serves as a crucial engine for nationwide development.
Furthermore, the Crown Estate has announced plans to invest up to £1.5 billion in the science, technology, and innovation sectors throughout the UK over the next 15 years. While it operates as an independent entity, it remains a royal property, boasting a £15 billion portfolio that includes various properties across the country, such as London”s West End. The profits generated from these holdings partially fund the activities of the monarchy.
