SCIENCE parks in Oxfordshire are outperforming other Thames Valley areas for the number of new businesses moving in, according to an independent report..

Science Vale UK, which includes Culham, Milton Park and Harwell Campus, is a particular draw for life sciences and space technology sectors.

And all of the sites look set to attract further investment, according to Lambert Smith Hampton’s 2017 Thames Valley Office Market Report.

The leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, Matt Barber, said: “Science Vale UK has the highest concentration of science research facilities and development activity in Western Europe and this report clearly demonstrates that organisations are excited to move here.

“Within the Science Vale UK region are two enterprise zones. The zones offer discounted business rates and can help a qualifying organisation to save up to £55,000 a year in business rates for five years. This, along with fast-track planning approval, have been the important foundations of success for the whole region.”

Further expansion is set to take place at Milton Park, where Immunocore Ltd has announced a further 53,000 sq ft expansion.

While other planned development for the Didcot Garden Town would lead to a new gateway to the Science Vale UK region.

That would lead to improved cycle paths and roads from the town to the business park.

Renewable and sustainable energy is also integrated into the plans.

The market report added that in the second quarter of 2017, demand for new premises will continue.

That is, according to the report, ‘testament to the robust investment in the knowledge economy of Oxford and South Oxfordshire.

It is hoped further development and housing building will mean 20,000 new jobs will be created in that area over the next 20 years.