38-40 George Street, Oxford

What could a civic space that creates the conditions for joy, learning, creativity and connection look like?

Last year, Makespace Oxford was selected as the official operator for a new civic space to be built at 38 – 40 George Street. Our vision for a civic space in Oxford is to create a space for co-creation and experimentation. A social lab that fosters mutual support and solidarity, rooted in Oxford, built with and for its citizens to come together to take on the big challenges of our time.

In partnership with Marick Real Estate, Staycity and Oxford City Council, we are working to create a fully accessible and welcoming space, for all ages and backgrounds, on the ground floor of the new building – coming 2027.

Read the blog
An interior photograph of a cafe service area at The Community Works

About Makespace’s Community Engagement

This is the first time in Makespace’s history that we have a permanent space to span multiple generations. Our original formula was to take unused buildings in Oxford on a temporary ‘meanwhile’ basis and transform them into great spaces for small purpose-driven businesses, charities and independent workers.

We look forward to working with Oxford organisations, residents, artists, and community groups to ensure that the space is what is needed for the city. We will work hard to complement and connect with our neighbours, The Old Fire Station and other cultural organisations around Gloucester Green. 

This will include a strategic programme of community engagement activities and focus groups to begin in the coming few months (Spring 2024).

PROJECT TIMELINE

  • 1

    Public Exhibition

    Early 2024

  • 2

    Planning

    Mid 2024

  • 3

    Design and procurement

    Late 2024

  • 4

    Construction commencement

    Mid 2025

  • 5

    Completion of Community Use space (Practical Completion)

    Late 2027

Project Partners

You can find out more about our project partners below.

Interested in staying in the loop?

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter!