GPA appoints Mace for new European weather centre in Reading
Deal News | Jan 20, 2025 | FM Business Daily
The Government Property Agency (GPA) has selected Mace as the lead contractor for the construction of the new European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) headquarters. This modern facility, aligned with sustainability and innovation principles, is situated on the Whiteknights campus of the University of Reading. Mace, recognized for its global delivery expertise, will work in conjunction with AtkinsRalis under the Crown Commercial Service framework to deliver this project. The new headquarters will feature a host of advanced facilities designed to foster cutting-edge weather and climate research, including offices, a lecture theatre, and an interactive weather room. Carbon reduction initiatives are integral to the project, adhering to the 2030 LETI standards. With the aim to accommodate 300 scientists, this development is not only a significant step in scientific research advancement but also promises considerable community benefits. The construction is set to commence in early 2025, with completion aimed for early 2027.
Sectors
- Construction
- Environmental Science
Geography
- United Kingdom – The project is located in Reading, UK, involving the Government Property Agency, ECMWF, and the University of Reading.
- Europe – The ECMWF is a European organization, and the new headquarters will serve as its hub for weather forecasting and climate research across the continent.
Industry
- Construction – The appointment of Mace to construct the ECMWF headquarters highlights the central role of the construction industry in delivering this state-of-the-art facility.
- Environmental Science – The new ECMWF headquarters will focus on advancing weather prediction systems and climate change research, core aspects of environmental science.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government Property Agency (GPA) | Client | Government | The GPA is responsible for the appointment of Mace for the ECMWF headquarters project. |
| Mace | Main Contractor | Company | Mace is the appointed lead contractor for the construction of the ECMWF headquarters. |
| European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) | End User | Organization | ECMWF will occupy the new headquarters, focusing on weather and climate research. |
| University of Reading | Location | Organization | The ECMWF headquarters will be located on the university's Whiteknights campus, near its Department of Meteorology. |
| AtkinsRalis | Multidisciplinary Consultant | Company | AtkinsRalis is working alongside Mace as a consultant to deliver the project. |