Oxford Debenhams: Vacant store could become lab space in £125m plan

The site has been unused since Debenhams closed during the Covid pandemic

A £125m project could transform a former Debenhams store into lab space in Oxford city centre.

The Crown Estate is a partner in the plan to renovate the store, situated at the junction of Magdalen Street and George Street.

Subject to it securing planning permission, work could start later this year and lab spaces could open in 2027 or 2028.

The Debenhams store closed in 2021 and has been unused since.

Oxford Science Enterprises and Pioneer Group are also partners in the scheme.

Hannah Milne, the Crown Estate's regional director, said the Debenhams site is a "prime example" of how it is "seeking to support regional economic growth in the UK".

She added: "Oxford Science Enterprises and Pioneer Group are ideal partners to join us on this journey.

"We look forward to working with them and Oxford City Council to accelerate innovation and economic growth for Oxford and further afield."

There is a shortage of appropriate lab space to house Oxford University's world class scientific research and from other linked spin-off companies in the city and Oxfordshire.

Beaver House and 39-42 Hythe Bridge Street, a short walk away from the Debenhams store and close to Oxford rail station, could also become a science facility.

Oxford North, which is marketed as an "innovation district", is currently being built in North Oxford with the first parts of that expected to open next year.

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