Huge Expansion and Investment in Oxfordshire's Tech and Science Ecosystem Contributing Over £1.5 Billion to the UK: Bicester Emerging as a Key Hub

Oxfordshire continues to solidify its position as a leading hub for technological and scientific innovation, with significant investments directed towards strengthening the region’s growing eco-system. Recent statistics highlight Oxfordshire’s impressive development in these sectors. According to the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (OxLEP), the region is home to over 3,000 tech-based businesses and has seen a year-on-year growth rate of 8% in digital and life sciences-related employment. In particular, the County’s thriving high-tech industries contribute £1.5 billion annually to the UK economy, positioning Oxfordshire as one of the most dynamic and innovative regions outside of London.

Bicester, rapidly expanding both residentially and commercially is strategically located within Oxfordshire, is rapidly gaining recognition as a vital player in this transformation. Bicester’s proximity to Oxford and its connectivity to London and the Midlands, thanks to its excellent rail and M40 transport infrastructure, makes it an ideal location for companies in the tech, science, and innovation sectors. Companies located in the region include:

•      Immunocore - A biotech company specializing in T-cell receptor (TCR) technology for treating cancers and infectious diseases, headquartered in Oxford.

•      Novo Nordisk - Biotechnology company Novo Nordisk have just expanded with a further 60,000 sq ft in Oxford at the Iverson Building. The Danish company's main product is the drug semaglutide, which is used to treat diabetes under the brand names Ozempic and Rybelsus.

•      Adaptimmune Therapeutics - Focuses on T-cell therapies for various cancer types.

•      Oxford Biodynamics - Known for its advancements in epigenetics and liquid biopsy diagnostics.

•      Exscientia - Pioneering the use of AI in drug discovery.

•      Evox Therapeutics - Innovating in drug delivery systems using engineered exosomes.

•      Ellison Institute of Technology EIT’s mission is to discover, develop and deploy science and technology in pursuit of solving some of humanity’s most challenging and enduring problems.

•      OXBOX (Oxford Biomedica’s Viral Vector Manufacturing Facility) - Located in Bicester, this facility has become a significant hub for advanced therapy medicinal products and viral vector manufacturing.

•      Orbit Discovery - This biotechnology company, focusing on drug discovery through its peptide display technology, has strengthened its presence in the region.

•      Siemens Healthineers - has announced a new 600,000 sq ft facility in Bicester that will design and manufacture superconducting magnets used in healthcare facilities.

•      YASA - a British manufacturer of electric motors and motor controllers for use in automotive and industrial applications. The company backed by Mercedes was founded in 2009 by the CTO Dr Tim Woolmer who is also the holder of a number of related motor technology patents.

Oxfordshire is rapidly developing quality accommodation for advanced manufacturing facilities with cutting-edge science parks and incubation centres, offering unparalleled opportunities for collaboration between Oxfordshire’s research institutions and emerging industries. 

Oxfordshire’s location also positions it as an essential hub for talent, with easy access to Oxford University’s world-class scientific and technological research. The University of Oxford, in collaboration with leading companies, is continuously advancing research in artificial intelligence, robotics, and biomedical sciences. The Government’s investment in the Oxford Innovation Engine – a £200 million initiative – has further solidified Oxfordshire’s international reputation in the life sciences and clean tech sectors.

Minister for Science, Research and Innovation, commented: "Oxfordshire, and particularly Bicester, is leading the way in tech and science innovation. The region’s investment in sustainable industries, digital technologies, and scientific research will not only support the local economy but also play a pivotal role in the UK’s long-term strategy for future-proofing its economy. Bicester’s strategic position and growing infrastructure make it a natural choice for business and academic partnerships."

Not only famous for Bicester Village, Bicester is well-positioned to continue playing a central role in Oxfordshire’s Eco System and  transformation into a global tech and science hub. With substantial investment in both infrastructure and talent, and its increasing appeal to businesses in the technology and life sciences sectors, Bicester is set to become a focal point for innovation in the years to come.

The Oxfordshire Eco System is now one of the leading centres in the world, encompassing a significant number of world beating clusters including automotive technology ,” explains Chris White, Managing Director of White Commercial Chartered Surveyors M40 Office. “There are a significant number of innovative, exciting, well-funded businesses in the area that need quality accommodation and environment”.

White Commercial are advising developers Sladen Estates and Peveril Securities  at Bicester Arc,  a 46 acre  ‘Jewel in Oxfordshire’s Crown’ site  situated next to Bicester Village and incorporating its own 15-acre Eco Park. The developers are seeking companies in these sectors to design and build state of the art bespoke buildings which can be leased or purchased.

White Commercial have also been advising Paloma Property Investors on a newly refurbished facility in Bicester known as Murdock House which provides quality accommodation set in its own secure site and totalling 40,000 sq ft including 13,150 sq ft Offices ideal for Hi-Tech R&D and production and a secure yard.

For more information:

Bicester Arc  

Murdock House