Osney Power Station – A Global Centre of Executive Education

The University of Oxford is transforming the historic Osney Power Station into a global executive education centre.

We are delivering full project management services for this complex, multi-phase redevelopment.

Precision project management

The programme involves navigating Oxford’s sensitive planning rules – from the Carfax height limit to strict heritage protections – while managing serious environmental risks such as flooding. We’ve guided the project from early design through to delivery, bringing clarity to a challenging brief and a historic site with deep local significance.

The building retains its original brickwork, steel windows and gantry cranes. Alongside these heritage details, we’ve integrated modern systems to meet zero carbon in use targets, including a concealed rooftop air source heat pump, an engineering first for Ridge.

Tight site constraints have called for inventive logistics and construction methods. These include specialist flood defence measures, precise river wall repairs using a coffer dam and the protection of archaeological finds, including medieval remains. Clear communication and close engagement with neighbours have helped manage the project’s proximity to residential streets.

Throughout, we’ve kept quality high, using tools like 360° site photography and real-time dashboards.

Where legacy meets leadership

The project will deliver flexible teaching spaces, advanced AV/IT suites, fine dining and leisure areas, and more than 120 en-suite bedrooms. Sustainable features – including photovoltaic panels, mechanical heat recovery systems and smart energy controls – support long-term performance with a minimal environmental footprint.

Powering purpose for generations

This transformation is about more than a building. It creates a long-lasting civic, academic and environmental asset. By preserving the site’s industrial heritage while enabling cutting-edge education, Osney Power Station will serve Saïd Business School, and the wider city, for generations to come.