Oxford business park-to-lab conversion set for approval

Plans to convert Eastpoint Business Park in Oxford into a laboratory and office campus are expected to be approved by Oxford City Council next week. Investor Railpen is looking to create a new 215,278 sq ft campus for life sciences research and development though the demolition of existing buildings and construction of new facilities. The business park, which sits south-east of Oxford just off the Eastern By-Pass Road, comprises office space across five buildings. Two of the buildings also include medical facilities. The proposals, lodged in April this year, seek to replace those buildings with three R&D hubs featuring CL2 labs, office and write-up space, collaboration space, learning labs for schools, balconies and green roofs. There will be also a separate café building and a multi-storey car and cycle parking hub.  The proposed development is expected to generate £92m per year. Savills is advising Railpen on planning. Image © Scott Brownrigg