The Crown Estate is set to expand the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire following its recent acquisition of a 221-acre site adjacent to the campus. This land, currently used for farming, has been designated for the development of approximately 4.5 million square feet of office, laboratory, and manufacturing spaces, along with up to 400 new residential units.
The expansion comes at a time when there is a strong demand for facilities that support early-stage businesses. Over the last two years, more than 50 organizations have joined Harwell, which is already home to significant enterprises such as vaccine manufacturer Moderna and the UK Space Agency.
According to the Crown Estate, the current lack of space in Oxford and surrounding areas poses challenges for businesses seeking to remain and grow in the UK. The organization is actively pursuing planning permissions to begin development on the new site.
Dan Labbad, chief executive of the Crown Estate, emphasized the importance of providing specialized laboratory facilities and housing to support advancements in science and technology, stating, “The UK”s science, innovation and technology community is pushing the boundaries of progress in areas from AI (artificial intelligence) to advanced manufacturing. But they need the specialized lab facilities and housing to realize potential.”
Additionally, Science Minister Lord Vallance noted that the new Harwell East site could enable local businesses and innovators to expand their operations and address significant contemporary challenges. He remarked on the economic potential of the site, highlighting its role in the broader goal of unlocking the Oxford-Cambridge growth corridor, which is seen as a catalyst for national growth.
The Crown Estate has committed to investing up to £1.5 billion in the science, technology, and innovation sectors throughout the UK over the next 15 years. Although it operates independently, the estate belongs to the reigning monarch and manages a portfolio valued at £15 billion that includes properties across the country, such as those in London”s West End. Profits generated by the Crown Estate contribute to funding the monarchy”s activities.
