Background
Since 2013, Avison Young has been the strategic real estate advisor to Exeter Science Park, working in partnership with Devon County Council, University of Exeter, East Devon District Council, and Exeter City Council. This collaboration has created one of the UK's most dynamic innovation ecosystems for science, technology, engineering and mathematics sectors.
Spanning 70 acres adjacent to the M5, the Science Park provides cutting-edge infrastructure purpose-built for technology businesses and research organisations. The development features advanced incubator facilities, flexible laboratory spaces, and professional conferencing facilities designed to accelerate commercialisation and foster collaboration. With direct links to University of Exeter research and emerging talent, it has become a magnet for tech companies, digital innovators, and engineering firms.
Our impact
Avison Young's integrated advisory transformed Exeter Science Park from vision to reality. We guided land acquisition, masterplanning, and infrastructure development, ensuring high-specification connectivity and environmental systems met technology sector demands while maintaining financial viability.
We structured complex funding from public sector partners, and established partner agreements, governance structures. We worked with the client to attract an experienced operating partner. And today, the Science Park hosts over 45 organisations employing 750 professionals across AI, cybersecurity, environmental technology, and advanced engineering, contributing £50 million annually to the regional economy. With capacity for 3,500 jobs by 2035, it's establishing Exeter as a nationally significant technology destination.
