The UK's Oxfordshire County Council has engaged domestic construction company Willmott Dixon to construct its new sustainable headquarters at Speedwell House in Oxford, England.
The council plans to move from its current location at County Hall in Oxford to a refurbished four-storey building at Speedwell House, which will be transformed into a net zero in operation office space spanning 5,200m².
Procured via the National Procure Partnerships framework, the company has been chosen for its appropriate skills for the project.
Willmott Dixon has experience in delivering net-zero operational buildings, as evidenced by its previous projects such as Bridgend College, Wigan & Leigh College campus, and a forthcoming net-zero development in London, UK.
Willmott Dixon managing director Richard Poulter said: “Being involved early will enable us to help develop plans that deliver on their [the council's] net-zero ambitions at the best possible value.
“We recently completed a series of decarbonisation projects for Oxford City Council at four leisure centres: Ferry Leisure Centre, Leys Pool and Leisure Centre, Barton Leisure Centre, and Hinksey Outdoor Pool. We’ll be taking the skills and learning from here to Speedwell House.”
The decision to relocate was confirmed by the council's cabinet in January 2024. This shift supports the council's commitment to sustainability and allows for the redevelopment of County Hall as part of Oxford city centre’s West End revitalisation.
Construction work on Speedwell House, including extensions and additional floors, is set to commence in 2025, following the completion of design plans.
Oxfordshire County Council councillor and cabinet member for finance Dan Levy said: "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us not only to create a modern carbon-neutral office and a welcoming and comfortable space for our employees, councillors and residents, but also to help transform this part of the city and better support those using the area.
"We’re looking forward to seeing the new offices take shape and to moving in during early 2027."
