Construction works are underway on a life sciences development on Hythe Bridge Street in Oxford.
The project involves the transformation of the former Beaver House site and neighbouring properties into a specialist life sciences facility called Bridge Labs.
McLaughlin & Harvey is now on site as main contractor to deliver the 3-year programme of works.
The scheme sees the redevelopment of Beaver House at 23-38 Hythe Bridge Street, together with properties at 39-42 on the same road, to create approximately 140,000 sq ft of flexible laboratory and office accommodation.
Alongside space for scientific research and development, Bridge Labs will deliver public-realm improvements, including a new café, a community garden and improved riverside connections. The project will also restore the historic Boatman’s Chapel and deliver biodiversity net gain of more than 500%.
“Bridge Labs represents an important investment in Oxford’s world-leading life sciences sector. Our team is now on site and working closely with Reef Origin, project partners and the local community to deliver a high-quality development that will support scientific innovation while creating lasting benefits for the city and its residents.”
Colin McCullough, Project Director
McLaughlin & Harvey
Bridge Labs is delivered by Reef Origin in partnership with its capital partner through the Forge_Kn platform.
McLaughlin & Harvey was appointed as main contractor through a negotiated pre-construction route.
“[McLaughlin & Harvey] demonstrated a highly proactive and collaborative approach from the outset. They rapidly mobilised a multidisciplinary team, bringing together programme, logistics, commercial and operational expertise to gain a thorough understanding of the project’s requirements and delivery challenges.”
Chris Goulding, Construction Director
Reef Origin