A FORMER factory and research centre which once employed 150 staff is on the market for the first time in more than 20 years, for £2.9m.

Technology House on the Oakfield Industrial Estate in Eynsham was built in the late 1980s as the UK headquarters for hand-dryer maker Airdri and its subsidiary Formula Systems, which made electronic door safety equipment.

The manufacturing moved to China, leaving the head office and research and development functions in Eynsham, which are now moving to a smaller building in the area.

Technology House stands at the head of the estate road, with a gated entrance and views across surrounding farmland.

David Williams, of agents Meeson Williams, said: “It is rare to see a facility of this type in the market for sale. Its size and large private site with further development potential (subject to planning), combined with being only five miles from the Botley A34 interchange, makes it an interesting opportunity for a wide range of businesses.”