Construction completion is expected by early 2027. Credit: Mace Group.

The Government Property Agency (GPA), the executive agency of the UK’s Cabinet Office, has named Mace, a delivery consultant and construction company, as the principal contractor for the new European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) headquarters in the UK.

The facility, which will be built at the University of Reading’s Whiteknights campus, is poised to become a primary centre for weather and climate research.

Mace secured the contract through the Crown Commercial Service framework.

The company will collaborate with the GPA’s multidisciplinary consultant, AtkinsRéalis, to deliver this sustainable project.

The forthcoming ECMWF headquarters will provide various facilities, including modern workspaces, meeting rooms, a lecture theatre, a council chamber, and an interactive weather room.

Its design features numerous carbon-reduction strategies such as optimised solar shading and energy-efficient mechanical and electrical systems, in line with the 2030 LETI standards for operational energy.

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Adjacent to the University of Reading’s Department of Meteorology, the new headquarters will house up to 300 scientists and staff. They will focus on advancing weather prediction systems, forecast production, and climate change research.

Construction is scheduled to commence in early 2025, with completion expected by early 2027.

GPA Capital Projects interim director Georgina Dunn said: “The new ECMWF headquarters will not only advance capabilities in weather and climate research but also bring significant benefits to the local community. By prioritising both embodied and operational carbon reductions, this project exemplifies our commitment to both sustainable development and scientific innovation.”

Mace UK Public Sector and Life Sciences, Construction managing director Rob Lemming added: “This new state-of-the-art weather centre will be a global hub for scientists to advance numerical weather prediction and inform the fight against climate change. Our focus on sustainability and innovation for this project will help the new headquarters meet the highest environmental standards.

“Every design decision has been driven by our commitment to reducing carbon emissions, in both operational and embodied carbon. This project exemplifies our dedication to creating a more sustainable future.”

Mace was selected by University College London in November 2024 to construct its neuroscience facility at 256 Grays Inn Road in London, England.