Science Area
Where is it?
The Science Area is located towards the north east of the city centre, and comprises the South Parks and Keble Triangle areas, totalling around 30 acres. It is bounded by University Parks to the north and east, by the Banbury Road to the west, and the University Sports Club and Mansfield and Keble Colleges to the south.
What is there?
Since completion of the University’s Museum of Physical Sciences in 1860, the area has provided a home for both the physical and life sciences in Oxford and provides an environment for research and teaching that meets the needs of leading scientists, a key factor in the University’s success.
In recent years, improved facilities have been created for Biochemistry, Earth Sciences, and the Pitt Rivers Museum.
Our vision
The Science Area master plan seeks to deliver facilities that modern scientific research requires, as well as enhancing the external environment, making the area more welcoming for pedestrians and creating links to the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter and University Parks.
What is happening now?
The masterplan is currently undergoing a comprehensive review to ensure that the Science Area site meets the University’s needs over the next 15 to 20 years. Among our priorities are to:
- improve landscaping throughout the site
- ensure that best use is made of the space available and identify buildings that are suitable for refurbishment and plots for development
- enhance routes into and across the Science Area for pedestrians and cyclists and manage vehicle movements to ensure safe access for all users
- review options to provide improved facilities for University staff that work there, such as cycle provision, cafes and childcare
What will happen next?
We expect that the first phase of the masterplan to be taken forward will be the landscaping improvements, which will benefit all users and visitors. Meanwhile, The first new building for the Physics Department in 50 years, the Beecroft building on Parks Road, is completed and we are working now on plans for the construction of a second Biochemistry building.