Oxford economic hub case study

Background

• Oxford University and Oxford Brooke’s bring skilled students to the area

• Several research organisations there (e.g Medical Research Council)

• Long tradition of motor industry (e.g Mini)

• 40 miles from Heathrow

• 50 miles from London - fast train link

• Hub for hi-tech companies

Changes

• More companies than ever

• Science Parks and Research Parks have grown to accommodate the increase in companies - new roads, buildings and services have been created (e.g Harwell Campus Research Park has built an innovation centre and 1,400 homes for employees)

• Companies have grown and expanded (e.g Oxford Instruments grew from a small company in 1959 to a global company in 2000s)

Regional significance

• Employment in hi-tech industries in Oxford grew by 40% in early 2000s - has led to a boom in house prices, people on low incomes have been priced out of Oxfordshire

• Employment in services for residents has increased (e.g between 1998 - 2008 jobs in education rose by 50%)

• Commuting times are high and there are issues with pollution as a result

National significance

• Oxford is home to globally respected hi-tech companies in biotechnology, medicine and motorsports - this brings prestige to the UK

• Oxford Instruments produce hi-tech tools and instruments. They employ over 1,500 in the UK and abroad, spreading money and jobs. They have a regional office in Yatton