New Weather HQ Takes Shape at University

A huge new headquarters for global weather forecasting is rising at the University of Reading's Whiteknights campus.

The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), based on Shinfield Road since 1979, runs 24/7 global forecasts and issues early warnings for droughts, heatwaves, floods and wildfires.

ECMWF is moving to a five-storey HQ at Earley Gate. Mace Construction began work in March 2025 and more than a year on the superstructure and much of the exterior look complete. Photos show cladding and all the windows fitted on the road-facing side.

On the benefits of the move, Professor Robert Van de Noort, the vice-chancellor of the university, said:

"The new headquarters will open up more collaboration opportunities between scientists at the University and ECMWF, with whom the University has a longstanding relationship.

"It is an important part of the work to strengthen the University's research in weather and climate change, and of building our reputation as a leading university in the area of environmental sustainability.

"We are working with the government and the contractor to keep neighbouring residents and others who are interested in the project updated on its progress."

A temporary building called TOB1, used by the Reading School of Art until June 2023, was demolished to make way for the new HQ. TOB1 was originally built by the government during World War II and was inherited by the university in 1947. The art school moved into a refurbished Central Kitchen Building for the 2023/24 academic year.

The new site is in Wokingham Borough Council's area; plans were approved by the council's planning committee in February 2024. Construction Map lists the project period as ending on Tuesday, December 1.

More work will follow to bring the building into operation, with a grand opening expected in 2027. It is unclear what will happen to the existing ECMWF facility once staff have moved.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter