Topping Out marks major milestone in The Daubeny Project

27 April 2025

The Oxford Science Park (TOSP) celebrated a major construction milestone last week with the topping out of the first building in The Daubeny Project, marking the completion of the highest structural point.

It represents significant progress in the ambitious three-building development, which is set to provide over 450,000 sq ft of state-of-the-art laboratory and office space for leading science and technology companies.

The event was marked by a ceremony on the building's rooftop attended by members of the project team, contractors and subcontractors, along with representatives from Magdalen College, majority owner of The Oxford Science Park.

L-R: Byron Byrne, Director (TOSP), Yong Shen, Director (TOSP), Robin Norman , Project Director (Mace), Jitesh Patel, Head of Development (TOSP)

Jitesh Patel, Head of Development at The Oxford Science Park, said: “Topping out the first building in The Daubeny Project is a fantastic achievement and a clear sign of the momentum we’re building. I’d like to thank everyone involved for their commitment and exceptional work in keeping the project on track. Together, we’re creating best-in-class environmentally sustainable buildings that will enable incredible science and technology companies to thrive here.”

The Daubeny Project is being delivered by Mace, the global delivery consultants and construction experts leading the build.

Robin Norman, Project Director at Mace said: “We’ve collaboratively overcome significant design challenges to get to this milestone. We’re proud to play a part in shaping such a significant development in one of Europe’s most dynamic and sustainable science and innovation hubs. The success of this first topping out is a testament to the extraordinary effort and collaboration of everyone on-site and in the project lifecycle.”

The Topping Out ceremony was held on the rooftop.

The second building in the Daubeny trio is on track to top out later this summer, with the third expected to reach the same milestone early next year, highlighting the pace and efficiency of the project despite a complex construction environment.

Designed by Scott Brownrigg, each building offers enhanced lab infrastructure designed to support cutting-edge research. Each floor has been designed with flexibility in mind, and has the capacity for up to 70% wet or dry labs. Spacious receptions and atriums to help foster not just innovation and collaboration, but employee wellbeing.

Ed Hayden, Life Sciences Director at Scott Brownrigg, said: "Topping out at The Daubeny Project marks a bold new chapter in Oxford’s legacy of scientific excellence. Set in one of the world’s leading centres of knowledge, this development redefines life sciences space - where cutting-edge research meets next-generation design. It’s a proud milestone for Scott Brownrigg and all who helped shape this vision. In close partnership with The Oxford Science Park and Mace, we’re delivering more than buildings: we’re creating an environment that drives discovery, nurtures talent, and draws global innovators shaping the future of science.”

View of two buildings in The Daubeny Project under construction.

Sustainability is a central focus of the project, with all three buildings targeting BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and EPC A ratings. The development incorporates low-carbon technologies, energy-efficient systems, and extensive use of sustainable materials.

With construction well underway and leasing interest already strong, The Daubeny Project is set to become a landmark destination for life sciences and tech in the UK.

Find out more at: www.daubenyoxfordsp.com

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