UK’s Biggest Science Project to Commence 2025

Prominent construction firm appointed to lead UK’s biggest science project of early 2025

A prominent construction firm established more than 100 years ago has been appointed to deliver the biggest UK science project to start in the first half of 2025.

Bowmer + Kirkland has been named main contractor on Fabrica, a major development from Mission Street and BGO in central Oxford. Mission Street is a specialist investor, developer and operator in the science and innovation sector, while BGO is a global real estate investment manager.

Construction on the scheme will begin in May 2025 following the completion of groundworks and site preparation by Colemans. The 180,000 sq ft development is set to complete in early 2027.

Located on Botley Road in Oxford’s West End – the city’s only innovation district within walking distance of the main train station, university and city centre amenities – Fabrica will be arranged across five floors and designed with flexibility to meet the evolving needs of science and innovation companies.

The scheme will also include more than 7,000 sq ft of amenities, including food and beverage space open to both occupiers and the wider public, with the aim of bridging the gap between science and the community.

Fabrica is the first commercial science building in the UK to target a BREEAM Outstanding certification. It is being designed to the highest sustainability standards, including EPC A and WiredScore Platinum, and will be Oxford’s first Living Wage building, ensuring all employees working within it receive the Living Wage or higher.

As part of its procurement commitments, Bowmer + Kirkland will engage the local workforce throughout construction.

Colin Brown, development director at Mission Street, said:

“Following a collaborative, positive procurement process, Bowmer + Kirkland will shortly take forward the science and innovation sector’s biggest construction start of 2025 so far.

“As science companies increasingly look to central Oxford for its extensive amenities and unrivalled transport connections, which will include the future link to East West Rail, Fabrica’s delivery represents a major vote of confidence in the UK market.”

Neil Brook, group construction director at Bowmer + Kirkland, added:

“We are delighted to have been appointed as the construction partner for this exciting and innovative lab, office, and collaboration space in the heart of Oxford, strengthening our existing relationship with Mission Street and BGO in the rapidly evolving life sciences sector.

“Our teams approached this project collaboratively from the start, allowing us to complete the tender process in just 10 weeks. We look forward to starting on-site at the end of May with a 96-week programme.”

Source: Insider Media