Planning consent achieved for life sciences building in Cowley

Planning consent has been secured for a life sciences building at a 1.3-hectare site in Cowley.

National property consultancy Carter Jonas secured a resolution to grant planning permission from Oxford City Council on behalf of Advanced Research Clusters (ARC) to construct Ascent.

The "modern and highly energy-efficient" facility at the ARC Oxford campus is set to house approximately 105,000 sq ft of lab-enabled offices and accompanying amenities.

The unit will include a rooftop lounge, wellness spaces, a gym and 'end-of-trip' facilities.

The architectural scheme also plans to improve the surrounding landscape, including enhancements to an adjacent footpath.

Steven Sensecall, partner at Carter Jonas in Oxford, said: "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."

Dan Williams, ARC Oxford’s director of asset management, added: "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."

Construction is due to start in July and the scheme is anticipated to be completed in early 2026.