UK Space Agency Expands with New Headquarters in Harwell, Oxfordshire and Regional Offices across the UK

The UK Space Agency is making a bold move to further support and collaborate with the growing space sector across the country. By opening new headquarters in Harwell, Oxfordshire, and regional offices in Scotland, Wales, and the Midlands, the Agency is positioning itself at the heart of the UK’s thriving space industry.

The decision to expand aligns with the government’s Levelling Up strategy, aiming to promote regional skills and job opportunities while delivering increasingly ambitious missions and capabilities. The UK space sector is already outpacing the rest of the economy, with a value of over £17.5 billion per year and employing over 45,000 people. Satellites underpin an impressive £360 billion per year of wider economic activity, highlighting the importance of the sector.

The new headquarters at Harwell’s Space Cluster in Oxfordshire is set to open in June, with regional offices in Cardiff, Leicester, and Edinburgh following suit. This strategic move will enable closer collaboration with the space sector, create more job opportunities, and promote growth in local economies.

Andrew Griffith MP, Minister for Space, highlighted the importance of Harwell’s Space Cluster as an ideal location for the UK Space Agency’s new headquarters, given its existing hub of collaboration and research organizations. The Agency’s CEO, Dr Paul Bate, expressed excitement about the transformational moment for the Agency and its enhanced ability to connect with regional talent and deliver the National Space Strategy.

The new structure will provide significant opportunities to capitalize on high-growth areas within the space sector, such as Earth observation and satellite broadband. It will also help the UK establish leadership in emerging markets like in-orbit spacecraft servicing and the new lunar economy, positioning the country as a global leader in space exploration and innovation.

The decision to relocate the UK Space Agency’s headquarters and establish regional offices has been met with enthusiasm from industry leaders. UKspace Chair, John Hanley, and Stuart Grant, Chief Executive of Harwell Campus, both expressed their excitement about the positive impact on the industry and the strengthened collaboration opportunities the move will bring.

As the government continues to support space clusters across the UK, the UK Space Agency’s decision to deepen its roots in key locations demonstrates a commitment to driving innovation, fostering partnerships, and pushing the boundaries of space exploration. The Agency’s presence at Harwell Campus signifies a shared vision to tackle real-world problems and drive progress through collaboration, creativity, and innovation.

Overall, the UK Space Agency’s expansion signifies a significant step forward for the UK’s space sector, positioning it for continued growth and success in the global space industry. The opening of new headquarters and regional offices is a testament to the government’s commitment to supporting and nurturing the UK’s thriving space industry.