The GPA submits planning application for Weather Centre

The Government Property Agency (GPA) has submitted a planning application to Wokingham Borough Council to seek planning permission for the new-state of-the-art headquarters for the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) at the University of Reading.

The new headquarters will create the largest cluster of weather and climate research and operational forecasting facilities in the world alongside the University’s Department of Meteorology.

The University of Reading has a longstanding relationship with ECMWF, its scientists having worked together for decades on cutting-edge science, including weather and climate simulations, and training programmes for early career researchers.

The new headquarters project is funded by the UK Government through the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and will be designed to industry-leading net zero carbon standards.

Clive Anderson, Director of Capital Projects said: “The GPA is delighted to have submitted the planning application for this new state-of-the-art project. The GPA team has been working closely with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and Mace Construction to develop the submission and deliver a modern, accessible, and highly sustainable building.”

The planning permission is a step towards the new facility, which will see a modern, inspirational and energy-efficient home for ECMWF’s headquarters and for its forecasting, research and training functions, bringing new job opportunities and attracting long-term investment into the region.