UK-based builder Mace has announced the structural completion of two new buildings being built for research and innovation space at Begbroke Science Park.

The completion was marked with a tree-planting ceremony.

This £59m ($72m) project is part of an overarching £4bn collaboration between the University of Oxford and Legal & General, which is overseen by the Oxford University Development (OUD) joint venture.

The new Begbroke facilities are set for completion in early 2024.

The development will deliver approximately 12,500m² of highly flexible office and laboratory space and expand the Science Park’s functional interior space.

University academic groups will occupy one of the buildings while research spinouts and other private sector partners will occupy the remaining space.

Oxford University vice-chancellor Irene Tracey said: “Begbroke Science Park is a vital part of the university’s research and innovation infrastructure.

“These two new buildings will provide a fantastic new setting for science, collaboration and knowledge-sharing, creating new jobs and supporting the growth of Oxford’s flourishing innovation economy.”

The intention is to develop a new community based on research, innovation, and sustainability, with roughly 1,800 affordable, energy-efficient housing units for use by both university staff and the public.

This community will also feature local amenities such as schools, nurseries and retail spaces, as well as new sustainable transport links.

OUD has submitted an outline planning proposal for the innovation area and is awaiting a response that is expected early next year.