Tech box scheme - Nebula - planned at Milton Park in Oxfordshire

Plans have been approved for a new state-of-the-art tech box scheme at Milton Park science and technology park in Oxfordshire.

The scheme, to be named Nebula, has been specifically designed with space, technology, life science and engineering companies in mind, promoting the growth of start-ups and cross-industry collaboration within the science and technology community.

The development will comprise a total gross internal area (GIA) of just under 80,000 sq ft, featuring seven new research and development workspaces ranging from 6,000 sq ft up to a single building of 30,000 sq ft.

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Situated on Park Drive, Nebula will feature sustainably sourced materials throughout, including laminated timber beams in place of steel, reducing embodied carbon significantly.

The exposed glulam beams will be visible inside the building in the open plan areas and the vaulted ceilings will accommodate science and technology companies using large-scale laboratory equipment, complete with large access doors and full height glazing.

The surrounding outdoor space will be professionally landscaped by the Milton Park estates team to attract local wildlife and promote biodiversity, while also creating a space for occupiers to relax and unwind.

The front of each property will feature a professional reception area as well as a high proportion of office space, giving companies the flexibility to carry out an array of work projects within their premises.

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As part of the development, the Milton Park team is aiming for BREEAM ‘Excellent’, the world’s leading sustainability assessment method for infrastructure and buildings, as well as an A-rating Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), the highest possible band for building energy efficiency.

Providing the inspiration for the development’s name, a nebula is a cloud of dust and gas occupying the space between stars and can act as fertile ground for new stars to grow – or in the case of Milton Park – life science and technology companies.

The scheme’s plans were submitted for approval to the Vale of White Horse District Council via the Park’s existing 2012 Local Development Order (LDO), simplifying the planning process and allowing construction to begin as swiftly as possible.

Chris Kimber-Nickelson, Development Director at MEPC Milton Park, said: “At Milton Park we’re always exploring innovative ways to develop adaptable and state-of-the-art premises for our occupiers, creating spaces that accommodate a range of requirements.

“With construction of the Nebula scheme to begin shortly, we’re excited to welcome a growing number of innovative science and technology companies in need of flexible medium to large-scale research and development space to the Park.

“Nebula is evidence of the ambitions shown in our 2040 Vision and will help set the scene for future development, creating a home for dynamic life science and technology companies, large or small.”