Advanced Oxford welcomes the publication of the Oxford Growth Commission Interim Report, released today by Government. The report sets out the scale of opportunity for Oxfordshire’s innovation-led economy, alongside the actions required to deliver sustainable and inclusive growth across the region.
The interim report highlights the national significance of Oxfordshire’s research-intensive clusters for jobs, productivity and investment. It also identifies key challenges around planning, housing and infrastructure that must be addressed if the region is to realise its full economic potential.
A clear opportunity, with action required
The report sets out 47 recommended actions for government, local authorities and delivery partners, focused on accelerating development, unlocking infrastructure capacity and supporting long-term growth. It also identifies 13 opportunity areas which could deliver tens of thousands of new homes and jobs if supported by strategic planning and investment.
The Commission’s work underlines that Oxfordshire already has many of the fundamentals required for success, including world-class research, a highly skilled workforce and globally significant innovation clusters. However, without coordinated action to remove long-standing barriers, the region risks falling short of what it can deliver for local communities and the UK economy.
Leadership and collaboration at the heart of delivery
The interim report has been developed through extensive engagement with partners across local government, universities, industry and infrastructure providers. It reflects a shared ambition to align growth with improved outcomes for housing, transport, public services and skills.
Sarah Haywood, Managing Director of Advanced Oxford and a member of the Oxford Growth Commission, said:
“This report provides a clear and comprehensive statement of the opportunities that exist within the Oxford region if we act to address key challenges which have been holding back our businesses, our public services, and our communities. The Commission has already made significant inroads in identifying actions that will support new housing, development, identification of key sites and action to unblock barriers presented by poor infrastructure and utilities – all of which are currently holding back economic development and growth within the region.
There is much to be done, but the prize is significant, and it requires us all to work together with purpose and pace. I look forward to the continuing work of the Commission through 2026 as it moves to its full recommendations and conclusion.”
Next steps
The interim report marks an important milestone in the Commission’s work. Further analysis and engagement will take place in 2026, leading to a final set of recommendations focused on delivery.
Advanced Oxford will continue to support the work of the Commission and work with partners to ensure that evidence-led policy helps Oxfordshire remain the UK’s most dynamic innovation economy and the best place to start and grow a science-based business.
