A massive 1.2 billion development which took two years to build, has now officially opened its first phase within Oxford‘s northern boundary. Oxford North is a huge science, technology and innovation distict with brand new laboratories and offices, 480 homes as well as a two-acre public park, Fallaize Park. The park features unique glass sculptures representing the planets of the Solar System, created by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson. The site was officially opened by Lord Hague of Richmond on Tuesday, September 30.
The opening event marked the completion of The Red Hall along with two laboratory buildings, which are expected to begin pioneering research early next year. Rising prominently on 64 acres at the northern edge of the city, Oxford North promises to be a vibrant hub where academia, startups, and global tech firms converge.
The Red Hall, designed by Fletcher Priest Architects, is the central building of the district with 33,000 square feet spread across four floors, featuring modern workspaces, a café, a 100-seat theatre, and collaborative co-working areas. Three additional buildings are planned to open by 2027, further expanding the district’s capacity.
The district is expected to generate more than 4,500 new jobs and boost the regional economy by an estimated £150 million annually.
The district is being developed by Oxford North Ventures, a joint venture between Thomas White Oxford, the development company of St John’s College at the University of Oxford, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, and development and asset manager Stanhope.
Lord Hague of Richmond, chancellor of University of Oxford, said: “We’re here to celebrate this iconic addition to the region’s innovation landscape.
“Oxford is a unique hub with an exceptional 900-year history, and is synonymous with life-changing scientific and technological breakthroughs.
“The continued investment into next generation infrastructure and inclusive opportunities such as Oxford North means this an exciting time to be part of this city.”
David Camp, CEO of Stanhope, added: “We are creating one of the UK’s most exciting, dynamic and vibrant mixed-use communities that enables businesses of all shapes and sizes to flourish side by side.
“With an improving funding outlook – VC investment into UK life science companies is expected to exceed £3.7 billion this year, the highest amount since 2021 – Oxford North is being delivered at the opportune time, and will address the unsatisfied demand for laboratory space in the UK from both domestic and international businesses.
“Crucially, it also benefits from the unique consortium behind its delivery, which combines long-term, stable capital, significant science and technology expertise, market-leading development management capabilities and deep local stakeholder knowledge and investment.
“This single ownership structure improves long-term investment and ensures that the quality of accommodation, public realm and amenities is maintained.”
