Pioneer Group and Firoka Group have secured planning consent to redevelop Ozone Leisure Park in Oxford into a mixed-use research and leisure campus.
Designed by Perkins&Will, the project will replace underused retail space with 500,000 sq ft of laboratory and office space. Existing attractions, including the cinema, bowling alley, cafés and restaurants, will remain alongside the new lab and office space.
The restoration of the Grade II* listed Minchery Farmhouse, which will reopen as a pub and social venue, and new public spaces will ensure the site continues to serve the wider community.
James Latham, director of real estate at Pioneer Group, said: “Securing planning approval is a significant milestone for the future of Ozone and the culmination of a great deal of work with the local community, Oxford City Council and our project partners. Our ambition has always been to create a long-term future for the site that responds to Oxford’s need for high quality employment space while bringing forward right-sized leisure and amenity facilities valued by the local community.”
“This approval gives Pioneer Group the opportunity to transform an underused site into a vibrant new destination that will create jobs, attract investment and deliver lasting benefits for the local area. We are looking forward to working with Firoka Group and our partners to take the next steps towards making that vision a reality.”
Daniel Parker, Perkins&Will London’s science and technology practice leader, added: “This approval marks a significant step in transforming an underused retail destination into a place that reflects Oxford’s future. By combining world class research space with heritage restoration, vibrant public realm and a strong leisure offer, the masterplan creates a destination where scientific discovery and everyday life sit side-by-side. The result is a mixed-use destination that supports innovation while remaining open, welcoming and connected to the local community.
Jonathan Bainbridge, a partner in the planning team at Bidwells, which advised Pioneer and Firoka, said: “The unanimous decision of the planning committee is an important step forward for the communities of this part of Oxford. Oxford is known the world over for its research and discovery, and this project brings that spirit to a part of the city that stands to gain the most from new investment. Particularly as we look to inspire the next generation to get involved in the opportunities the Oxford knowledge economy presents. Listening to the feedback of local communities, the replacement cinema ensures the project maintains family fun on the site, and a welcoming new open space sits at its heart for events, food markets and performances for all to use.
“The development will also bring the much loved Grade II* listed Minchery Farmhouse, currently at risk and in disrepair, back into life. Securing this permission has been a real team effort with our planning, heritage and project management teams working hand in glove with the client and design team to ensure a positive outcome. We are incredibly proud of our involvement in this project, and we look forward to seeing its potential realised.”
