Wates Construction has commenced the main building work on the National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC).
The purpose-built facility will be a landmark building that will distinguish the NQCC as a world-leading scientific research institution.
Located at the Science and Technology Facilities Council's (STFC) Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Campus at Harwell in Oxfordshire, the ambition of the national centre is to foster a vibrant environment that promotes collaboration between quantum hardware and software researchers, attracting visitors and industry interest from across the UK and internationally.
The NQCC aims to bring together academia, business, and the public sector to address the key challenges of quantum computing, such as scaling-up this technology, making it commercially viable, and exploring how to create economic value.
The programme is funded through the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) in partnership between the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and STFC. Construction started on site earlier this year and is due for completion in Q3 2023.
The new mixed provision of office, meeting and laboratory spaces will enable multidisciplinary teams to collaborate, providing the necessary infrastructure and an environment in which to design, build, operate and host quantum computers. The Centre is designed to house different technologies based upon a variety of quantum computing architecture designs and will help ensure that world-leading research and innovation continue to grow and flourish in the UK, attracting visitors and industry interest from across the country and internationally.
The project showcases Wates's strength in sustainability and pre-fabrication. The team will use highly sustainable cross-laminated timber in the building frame, providing a low carbon footprint, while several building components will be prefabricated off-site to reduce vehicle movements and carbon emissions. These include internal riser and corridor modules along with plant room skids, produced in Wates’ offsite manufacturing facility, PRISM, in Coventry. Wates will also use electrically powered plant and machinery wherever possible.
Wates has made environmental and social value commitments as part of the project, in partnership with its supply chain. As well as creating new full-time job opportunities, 12 apprenticeships and additional work experience placements, the project will also divert over 98% of waste from landfills and deliver a BREEAM Excellent scheme.
Construction News
09/06/2022
Main Building Work Begins On NQCC In Oxfordshire


08/07/2025
Morgan Sindall Construction has announced the successful completion of the main building phase for the King Henry VIII 3-19 School redevelopment in Abergavenny, a transformative £62.5 million project delivered via the SEWSCAP framework. A celebration was held to mark the handover of the new building

08/07/2025
The government has today confirmed funding for over 50 road and rail infrastructure upgrades. These projects, which include long-awaited schemes such as the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine route and the Portishead to Bristol city centre rail line, are anticipated to provide a substantial boost to the con

08/07/2025
The shortlist for the 2025 Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards has been unveiled by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
Now in its fourth year, the initiative continues to champion the significant contributions of women across the industry, aiming to make female role

08/07/2025
Watts Group, a prominent property and construction consultancy, has today published the 30th edition of its widely respected 'Watts Pocket Handbook', marking nearly a decade since its previous release.
Recognised as a vital resource for professionals across the built environment, this latest editi

08/07/2025
A team of staff from Leeds College of Building (LCB) recently made their debut at 'The Big Construction Diversity Challenge 2025'. The annual event, held on Friday, 27 June 2025, at Newark Showground, serves as a key platform to promote the crucial importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion (E

08/07/2025
Dan McGrail has been officially appointed as the permanent Chief Executive Officer of Great British Energy, the UK's publicly-owned clean power company.
His appointment aims to accelerate the government's Plan for Change, with a core mission to establish the UK as a clean energy superpower. Mr McG

08/07/2025
Understanding Custom Rubber Diaphragms
Custom rubber diaphragms are essential components in various industrial applications, playing a crucial role in enhancing performance and efficiency. As a manufacturer specialising in these versatile components, we've witnessed firsthand the impact th

08/07/2025
Modular tiles are among the most popular option for flooring at the minute. These bring character and sophistication through their layout. Most frequently these are made from porcelain which makes them multifunctional and highly durable. Modular tiles are suitable for old and new properties and are

07/07/2025
Travelodge has officially broken ground on a new 100-room hotel in Loughton, marking the latest addition to the UK's first budget hotel brand's expanding portfolio.
The company, which operates more than 610 hotels across the UK, Ireland and Spain, is aiming to meet growing demand for affordable ac

07/07/2025
Oldham Council has officially unveiled Snipe Gardens, a newly created green space and pedestrian gateway designed to provide a welcoming entrance into the town centre.
Situated on the site of the former Snipe Inn pub, the new landscaped area links Oldham bus station with Henshaw Street. As one of t