Plans to build 1,800 new homes as part of a science district on the outskirts of Oxford are set to proceed after Cherwell District Council granted outline planning
permission to Oxford University Development (OUD). This joint venture between the University of Oxford and Legal & General will create a new village surrounding Begbroke Science Park, just a few miles north of the city.
The Begbroke Innovation District will feature 1,800 homes, with 50 percent designated as “affordable.” In addition to housing, the development includes plans for up to three new schools and a variety of community amenities, such as shops, restaurants, and other social infrastructure.
Anna Strongman, chief executive of OUD, welcomed the council's decision: “The resolution to grant outline planning approval for Begbroke Innovation District is a major step forward in our ambition to deliver sustainable communities in Oxfordshire that support world-leading research and innovation, alongside much-needed new homes.”
The development is based on a 170-acre site and builds upon the 25-year legacy of research at Begbroke Science Park, which hosts more than 20 research groups and around 30 high-tech companies in fields such as engineering, materials, and life sciences. It is the only science park in Oxfordshire fully owned and managed by the University of Oxford.
Alongside the residential aspect, the district will feature up to 155,000 square meters of flexible employment space, allowing research tenants and university spinouts to scale up their operations. Recent expansions include 12,500 square meters of new space at two new Begbroke Science Buildings, further supporting commercial research.
The innovation district is expected to generate up to 5,000 jobs. The next phase of the project involves finalizing the Section 106 legal agreement, which will outline the infrastructure obligations needed to support the development. Detailed proposals are expected to be submitted in consultation with Cherwell District Council, Oxfordshire County Council, and the local community in 2025.