The Crown Estate has announced its intention to expand the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus by acquiring a 221-acre plot of farmland adjacent to the existing facilities in Oxfordshire. This new area, known as Harwell East, is slated for the construction of approximately 4.5 million square feet dedicated to office, laboratory, and manufacturing spaces, alongside plans for up to 400 residential units.
The Harwell Science and Innovation Campus is notable for housing significant organizations, including the vaccine manufacturer Moderna and the UK Space Agency. Over the past two years, the campus has seen the addition of more than 50 organizations, reflecting its growing reputation as a leading science hub.
With the increasing demand for laboratory and advanced manufacturing facilities, the Crown Estate aims to address the current shortage of space for early-stage businesses in the Oxford area. The organization is actively pursuing planning permissions to commence development on the site.
Dan Labbad, chief executive of the Crown Estate, emphasized the importance of providing specialized facilities for the thriving UK science, innovation, and technology sectors. He stated, “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. The ambition of Harwell East is to create the space for great science to flourish, and to fuel growth and success not just in the region but for the benefit of the whole country.”
Science Minister Lord Vallance noted that the development of Harwell East could significantly benefit local businesses and innovators by providing them with the necessary resources to tackle contemporary challenges. He remarked, “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.”
The Crown Estate has committed to investing up to £1.5 billion in science, technology, and innovation sectors throughout the UK over the next 15 years. Although it operates as an independent business, the estate ultimately belongs to the reigning monarch and manages a substantial portfolio valued at approximately £15 billion, which includes properties across the nation, such as those in London”s West End. The profits generated by the estate partially fund the activities of the monarchy.
