New phase promises high-tech growth for Oxfordshire innovation hub
Albion Land’s flagship technology park, Catalyst Bicester, is set for significant expansion following Cherwell District Council’s approval of the next phase of development. The green light paves the way for an additional 128,000 sq ft of premium employment space across three state-of-the-art, sustainable buildings along the A41.
Planning permission for the project, part of Phase 4 of the Catalyst masterplan, was granted at a council meeting on Thursday, 16 January. With eight buildings already completed and fully let to advanced manufacturing, research and development (R&D), and design companies—including notable names such as Evolito, Tesla, and Yasa—Catalyst Bicester continues to establish itself as a hub for innovation and technology.
The development also benefits from nearby amenities such as the Holiday Inn Express and David Lloyd Leisure, enhancing the appeal of the park for employees and businesses alike.
Simon Parsons, Director of Albion Land, said:
“This is fantastic news for Bicester, Oxfordshire, and the high-skills technology and engineering sectors in the region. These bespoke new buildings will provide exceptional workspace for companies eager to join the Catalyst Bicester success story and benefit from our efforts to strengthen Bicester’s tech ecosystem. We’re thrilled with the planning approval and are eager to move forward to meet the strong demand from occupiers.”
Construction of Phase 3 is planned for 2025, delivering a further 110,000 sq ft across five buildings. Phase 4 will follow unless accelerated by tenant demand. Phase 4 represents a £55 million investment and could create around 500 additional jobs, depending on the eventual occupiers of the new space.
Catalyst Bicester’s development began in 2021, with Phases 1 and 2 now fully built out and leased. The most recent addition, Unit 8 (38,710 sq ft), was completed last autumn and is already home to an international advanced-engineering and design business.
Demand for space at Catalyst Bicester is driven by the growth of Oxfordshire’s innovation and technology sectors, as well as the park’s strategic location, high-quality amenities, and integration within the region’s tech and engineering ecosystem.
The three new Phase 4 buildings will occupy a prime site fronting the A41, directly opposite the Holiday Inn Express. The site is designated in the Cherwell Local Plan for knowledge-based employment development.
Albion Land was supported in the planning process by Quod (planning consultants) and Cornish (architects).
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