Construction start eyed next month for new life sciences building in Cowley
The life sciences sector in Oxfordshire has received a boost after property consultant Carter Jonas has been granted planning consent on behalf of Advanced Research Clusters (ARC) for a life sciences building, to be known as ‘Ascent’, at its campus in Cowley.
Ascent will provide around 105,000 sq ft of lab-enabled office space with construction due to begin next month. The scheme is expected to be completed early in 2026.
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Dan Williams, ARC Oxford’s director of asset management, said: "We’re delighted to have secured planning permission for Ascent.
"This transformational project will provide a new home for businesses of all types including leading science and tech organisations. This latest development at ARC Oxford further supports our mission in attracting world class talent, driving economic growth, and fostering continuous support for the innovation ecosystem in the City."
Steven Sensecall, partner at Carter Jonas in Oxford, added: "This fantastic new building will make a major contribution to the supply of life science buildings in Oxfordshire.
"This is the first of many exciting proposals we are helping ARC bring forward at ARC Oxford, which will enable the transformation of the site into an innovation campus, reflecting its position as an internationally, nationally and regionally important anchor site."
The 3.2 acre site was previously occupied by several offices, which are being replaced by a new building, which will include a rooftop lounge, wellness spaces, a gym and 'end-of-trip' facilities.
