Opinion is split as planning chiefs are set to decide a major scheme for a five-storey city centre science lab.

The proposals are being put forward by applicant Forge Bio GP 2 LTD for land at Beaver House and buildings at 39-42A Hythe Bridge Street in Oxford.

Under the plans, the existing 1970s Beaver House building, used as office space, would be demolished alongside the two restaurants next door.

The new life science facility would be known as 'Bridge Labs' adjacent to the Oxford rail station.

Oxford City Council's planning committee will decide the scheme on Tuesday, September 17. Planning officers have recommended it for permission. 

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The application has had 12 supporting comments and 15 objections. 

Beaver House (Image: Newsquest.)

An objection from the Oxford Civic Society said: “We regard the decision to demolish rather than reclad this landmark building as regrettable. 

“It thus follows that any replacement must now demonstrate the architecture of our time and be a high-quality development at one of the city's principal entrances.

"It should set a benchmark for future development proposals within the west end of the city, so needs to be exemplary in terms of its design, sustainability, and community benefits. We do not believe that the current scheme is the benchmark it should be.”

Kate Richenburg, of Harefields, Oxford, added: “The south elevation on Hythe Bridge Street is heavy and aggressive looking, compounding the problem. The design needs modifying accordingly.

“Traffic in that part of Oxford is already congested, and this will make matters significantly worse, especially during construction.”

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Supporter Piotr Brzezinski, of Gransden Avenue, London, said: “The existing building on the site is notably ugly (I've walked by it many times) and the replacement is a massive improvement, while being reasonably attractive on its own right. Strong support.”

Frideswide Square near Beaver House and the Oxford Rail Station

Hugo Spindler, of Rectory Road, Oxford, said: “I support this proposal - the current building on the site is an eyesore and that which is shown in proposals is a great improvement. Furthermore, the jobs created during and after construction would be valuable to the community.”

The applicant's planning statement said the scheme would “make a strong contribution towards the city’s knowledge economy, whilst also contributing to the wider regeneration of the West End.”

It added that it would create a total of 810 jobs within its operational phase. 

The planning officers' report said: "The proposals would be car-free and would result in a significant reduction in car parking provision when compared to the existing. Cycle parking would be provided in accordance with the Local Plan standards."

For more details about the plans online, search 24/00690/FUL on Oxford City Council's planning portal.