Exeter College unveils proposals for EXOq, a new research and innovation district
Exeter College has unveiled proposals for a vital new UK research and innovation district, known as EXOq, located adjacent to Oxford Parkway Station. The plans are designed to balance world-class scientific infrastructure with extensive new public amenities, including high-quality parkland and community facilities for the nearby community of Kidlington.
The project, named EXOq with the ‘q’ representing its suitability for quantum computing, will be a significant investment in both national research capability and the local community. Central to the proposal is a Sovereign High-Performance Compute (HPC) infrastructure, designed to power and accelerate research of global significance in fields like health, climate, and robotics.
Alongside the innovation units, a good portion of the 30-hectare site will be transformed into high-quality parkland for public use. The development aims to be a low-traffic exemplar, with a new foot and cycle bridge linking the site directly to Oxford Parkway station. New footpaths will also connect to canal side walks and other cycle paths, enhancing active travel options to Oxford and Kidlington.
The proposals also include a new further education college to provide skilled local employment opportunities, a low-carbon heat facility for the area, and a hotel.
Key features of the EXOq proposals
- Sovereign High-Performance Compute (HPC) infrastructure
- Quantum-compatible data centres and trusted research environments
- High-quality public parkland and community facilities
- A new further education college for skilled local employment
- A new foot and cycle bridge connecting to Oxford Parkway station
- New footpaths and cycle paths connecting to the canal towpath
- A new low-carbon heat facility for the area
- A hotel designed with longer stays in mind for some visitors to the site
Exeter College, home to the DeepMind Professor of Artificial Intelligence, Professor Michael Bronstein, is at the forefront of Oxford innovation.
Dr Andrew Roe, Rector of Exeter College, said: “This strategic development represents a significant investment in both national capability and the local community”.
Finance & Estates Bursar of Exeter College, Nicholas Badman, said that “EXOq’s sovereign HPC infrastructure will power and accelerate research of global significance and associated commercial ventures, building-on and enhancing Oxford’s world-renowned status.”
A public consultation is being held at the North Oxford Golf Club on Thursday 13th November, Friday 14th November, and Saturday 15th November. For people unable to attend, the information will be uploaded to the project website at www.exoq.co.uk on Thursday 13th November, where feedback will also be invited.
An aerial view of the proposed layout for EXOq.
