Major Oxford Life Sciences Scheme Moves Forward

Planning permission has been granted to create a new life sciences district in Oxford which could boost the local economy by £150m per year.The proposals for Oxford North are led by Thomas White Oxford, the development company of St John’s College.The 64-acre scheme comprises new laboratories and workspaces for biomedical science, new homes, public parks and neighbourhood shops.Following Oxford City Council’s planning review committee reviewed the application in December 2019, giving it the green light.Discussions on the legal agreements have now concluded with a section 106 obligation in place.The project will release an £8m of Community Infrastructure Levy over the life of the project, which Oxford City Council will administer for infrastructure projects in the local area including projects to be identified by Wolvercote community.It will also provide a link road, public art, children’s play areas and safer routes to school, along with a guarantee of a minimum of 35 per cent affordable housing.