Oxford North, the £1.2 billion innovation district transforming the city’s northern gateway, has marked a major employment milestone with the creation of its 2,000th construction job since work began in August 2021.
The landmark figure was reached by Costa Tanasa, who works with Morgan Lovell delivering the fitted laboratories at 2 Fallaize Street and lives near Didcot.
Costa first joined Morgan Lovell in 2022 through an agency placement before progressing to a permanent position – a story project leaders say highlights the development’s real impact on career growth across Oxfordshire.
“It’s a real privilege to be part of such a prestigious project, where many top-tier construction companies are working together for Oxford North Ventures to build Oxford’s newest landmark,” Costa said.
“The site has a really positive energy, and there’s a strong sense of collaboration with everyone involved. Being based locally makes it even more meaningful as it’s not often you get to work on a project that’s right on your doorstep.”
The 2,000-job milestone marks a dramatic rise from December 2023, when employment stood at 1,025 roles. Importantly, 29 per cent of all jobs have been filled by Oxfordshire residents – nearly double the 15 per cent target set in the Community Employment Plan agreed with Oxford City Council.
To date, the scheme has also created 61 apprenticeships through partners including Laing O’Rourke, The Hill Group, Careys, Mace, Alandale, Maylim, Morgan Lovell, and Flynn James.
Simon Ruck, managing director of Oxford North, said: “Reaching the 2,000th on-site employee is a tremendous achievement and a real marker of the momentum behind Oxford North. We’re proud to be creating meaningful opportunities for local residents and supporting the wider regional economy as Oxford North continues to grow.”
Oxford North Ventures – a joint venture between Thomas White Oxford (the development company of St John’s College), Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, and Stanhope – continues to work closely with its Social Value Steering Group, which includes representatives from local authorities, education providers, and employment services.
“This significant milestone underscores the tangible social value Oxford North is delivering,” said Victoria Collett, development director at Thomas White Oxford. “We’re generating opportunities that help people develop new skills and build careers.”
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, added: “Oxford North is a great example of how large, new developments can bring real benefits to our communities. The scheme has gone beyond the targets we set, which is fantastic.”
When fully complete, Oxford North will deliver up to one million sq ft of new laboratory and office space, 480 homes, a hotel, nursery, three public parks, amenities, and a vibrant seven-day-a-week neighbourhood for science and technology innovators.
With Phase 1A now complete, including 158,500 sq ft of purpose-built laboratory and workspace, the district continues to set new standards for placemaking and regional opportunity.
