Shared on behalf of Marick Real Estate and Watkin Jones Group.
Marick Real Estate is pleased to announce the appointment of Watkin Jones Group as the construction partner for the redevelopment of 38-40 George Street into Wilde Oxford, a new design-led, 145-unit lifestyle aparthotel with welcoming social spaces designed to bring guests, locals and visitors together to meet, work and connect. There is also a 400m² community space, which is being developed in partnership with Makespace Oxfordshire. This versatile space will serve as a hub for a wide variety of community activities, further enriching the local area and providing a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
Building contracts were signed with Watkin Jones earlier this month, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of this landmark project for the Gloucester Green area.
The project is now in mobilisation, with hoarding to be installed mid-August, followed by the arrival of welfare cabins and demolition anticipated to commence in late August, keeping the project in line with previously forecast timescales.
The development is targeted for Practical Completion and handover back to Marick, Staycity Group, and Oxford City Council in Q1 2029.
To ensure minimal impact on the local area, a comprehensive Construction Management Plan (CMP) is being implemented. This includes strict protocols to manage activities that could cause disruption. The Gloucester Green Market and all surrounding businesses will remain open and operational throughout the construction works, and we will continue to work with them to minimise any impact.
The project, designed with sustainability at its core, is targeting a BREEAM “Excellent” rating, reflecting the parties continued focus on delivering high-quality, sustainable schemes. It will contribute to Oxford's green agenda by achieving a 60% Biodiversity Net Gain, enrolling into the City’s “Safe Places” scheme, and reducing carbon emissions by over 40%. This scheme promises to set a new standard for environmentally responsible development in Oxford.
Cllr Ed Turner, Deputy Leader of Oxford City Council and Cabinet Member for Finance and Asset Management, said: “I'm really pleased to see this important development moving forward, bringing investment, new jobs and high-quality accommodation to our city centre. We know neighbours may be worried about disruption during the construction phase, so I'm glad to see that clear plans are in place to minimise this and continue the open communication with residents, market traders and local businesses. Keeping Gloucester Green Market and surrounding shops open throughout the works is especially important, and we will continue working closely with everyone involved to make sure the area remains a vibrant and welcoming place. In the longer term, this scheme will play a key role in strengthening the local economy and enhancing the city centre for everyone”.
Matthew Kimberley of Marick Real Estate commented on the progress: “We are delighted to bring Watkin Jones on board as our construction partner. Moving to mobilisation and demolition phases is a big step forward for the George Street regeneration. We are committed to working closely with our neighbours, and Watkin Jones will be holding introductory meetings with residents, market traders, and local businesses to ensure lines of communication are open from day one. We would like to thank the local community for their continued support as we progress this exciting development for Oxford.”
Alex Pease of Watkin Jones commented: “This is a strong addition to our delivery pipeline, further supporting our diversification into the hotel sector and marking our first development partnership with Marick Real Estate. This transaction demonstrates our ability to deliver high-quality urban schemes, in vibrant cities like Oxford, where demand remains strong for well-located accommodation options.”
Simon Walford of Staycity said: “Oxford is one of the most exciting hospitality markets in the UK, with a global reputation and strong demand from visitors year round. This development is an exciting investment for us and an important step in our continued growth and we're looking forward to playing a part in the city's evolving hospitality landscape.”
Kelly Morgan, Wilde Director, said: “We're delighted to be bringing Wilde to Oxford. It's a city rooted in culture, creativity and discovery, which makes it a natural fit for our brand. We’re known for creating stays for people who value great design, authentic experiences and a genuine connection to the places they visit and we're excited to become part of Oxford's story”
Andy Edwards of Makespace Oxfordshire said: “We're pleased to see the project progress. With affordable community spaces in the city centre becoming rare, this long-term commitment to a locally owned hub for collective action is vital.”
For any further information, please visit the project website: www.george-street.co.uk
