The Government Property Agency has been given the go-ahead to develop a cutting-edge headquarters for the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts at the University of Reading in Berkshire.
Construction of the 186,000 sq ft property is scheduled to start towards the end of this year, with completion expected in autumn 2026.
The new HQ, to be delivered for the GPA by AtkinsRéalis and Mace, will provide space for as many as 300 scientists and staff to support world-leading work on all aspects of weather prediction systems, forecast production and research into climate change.
The addition of the building creates the largest cluster of weather and climate research and operational forecasting facilities in the world at the site, sitting alongside the university’s Department of Meteorology.
The project is funded through the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and will be designed to net zero carbon standards.
Parliamentary secretary for the Cabinet Office Alex Burghart said: “Ensuring the UK stays at the forefront of the global science and technology sector is essential to delivering long-term economic growth and security across the country. Reading is the ideal location for this new headquarters, perfectly positioned to access the university’s strong talent pipeline and create fantastic new opportunities for the next generation.”
Clive Anderson, director of capital projects at the GPA, added that the planning permission was “another milestone” for the GPA to “deliver smart, modern, sustainable and digitally connected workplaces that focus on supporting productivity and wellbeing”.
Image from the GPA
Send feedback to Samantha McClary
Follow Estates Gazette
