OXFORD University has received a £15 million donation from a Syrian arms deal fixer to support its redevelopment of Oxford's Osney Power Station.

Saïd Business School founder Wafic Saïd signed the Deed of Gift to help build the new Global Leadership Centre at the site of Oxford's first power station.

The University has promised that the vast teaching and residential facility – which will include 121 bedrooms, a gym and dining room – will 'live in harmony' with its scenic waterside setting.

Oxford Vice-Chancellor Professor Louise Richardson said: "I would like to express our deep appreciation to Wafic Saïd for his generous and visionary support of this exciting project."

Peter Tufano, the Dean of the school, added: "In the Global Leadership Centre, we will work with leaders of global business, government and civil society to help them reconsider their purpose as well as their operations."

Building work is scheduled to begin in early 2020 and last two years.

Businessman Mr Saïd, known for his part in arms deals between Britain and Saudi Arabia, said: "The Said Business School’s success and impact on global business practice has surpassed even my most ambitious dreams.

Oxford Mail:

"It is a pleasure and a privilege to support the School as it embarks on the next chapter of its remarkable story with the Global Leadership Centre."

Dating back to 1892, the station played an important part in Oxford’s industrial history but will now replace the business school’s Egrove Park in Kennington as a venue for 'executive education clients'.