Construction starts on Aspen Building to strengthen Oxford science cluster

The Oxford Trust has broken ground on the Aspen Building, a £7 million expansion of its Wood Centre for Innovation in Headington, Oxford. The project marks a key milestone in the Trust’s 40th anniversary year and responds to growing demand from start-ups and early-stage companies for laboratory and office space within the Headington Science Cluster.

Due for completion in summer 2026, the new 17,000 ft² facility will provide CL II level laboratories, flexible office space, and a STEM resources room to support the Trust’s Science Oxford education and outreach programmes. Once operational, it is expected to create up to 80 new jobs, further strengthening the city’s life sciences ecosystem.

Sustainability is central to the development, which is targeting BREEAM Excellent. Features include photovoltaic panels, a green wall, rainwater harvesting, cycle facilities, and a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain to enhance the surrounding 15 acres of woodland and ponds.

Beard Construction, which also built the existing Linden Building and Science Oxford Centre in 2018–19, has been appointed as construction partner. Steve Burgess, CEO of The Oxford Trust, described the project as “a major milestone” that will deliver “essential lab and office space for start-up and early stage grow-on science and tech companies, helping to strengthen the Headington Science Cluster and wider innovation ecosystem.”

Office and lab spaces in the Aspen Building are available to pre-let, giving incoming tenants flexibility in design.

Founded in 1985 by the late Sir Martin and Lady Audrey Wood, The Oxford Trust has supported science innovation and public engagement in Oxford for 40 years, combining the management of innovation spaces with its Science Oxford education and outreach programmes.

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