The biotech and research sectors continue to drive laboratory development across Cambridge. The area has seen numerous planning applications for new facilities and expansions since early 2023. reflecting the region's growing importance as a science hub.
Extensions & Renovations
Cambridge Biomedical Campus has been a focal point for development. In March 2023 AstraZeneca submitted plans for a significant extension to their existing R&D facilities. Their plans propose additional laboratory space of approximately 35,000 square meters. This expansion aims to accommodate their growing research programs.
At Babraham Research Campus, several applications emerged for both new builds and renovations. The campus submitted plans for a new multi-occupancy laboratory building in summer 2023. This was intended to house early-stage biotech companies.
The Cambridge Science Park's southern section has seen multiple applications for laboratory upgrades. Since early 2023, Trinity College, the park's owner, put forward proposals for modernizing several existing buildings to create state-of-the-art laboratory spaces suitable for modern research requirements.
Granta Park expanded its laboratory footprint with several key developments. One significant application involved converting office space to wet labs. This is a sign of the times and reflects the growing demand for specialized research facilities in the area.
The University of Cambridge filed multiple applications for laboratory improvements across its southern campuses. These included renovations to existing facilities and new purpose-built research spaces.
Several smaller biotech companies submitted applications for laboratory fit-outs within existing buildings. These adaptations reflect the growing need for flexible research spaces in the region.
Planning applications also emerged for supporting infrastructure. These included proposals for improved waste handling facilities and specialized ventilation systems necessary for advanced laboratory operations.
Melbourn Science Park has requested an Environmental Impact Assessment to determine the feasibility of redeveloping the 16.4-acre site. The scheme would entail the demolition of 13,629 sq m of existing buildings and the removal of the surface car parking to create 41,406 sqm of new offices, research space and a multi-storey car park.
Multiple sustainability-focused modifications appeared in applications throughout the period. Companies sought permission to upgrade existing laboratories with more energy-efficient systems and renewable energy installations.
Recent Planning Consents for New Laboratories
During 2023, Abcam's new facility at Cambridge Biomedical Campus progressed through various planning stages. The company sought permission for modifications to their originally approved laboratory designs, including enhanced sustainability features and additional research spaces.
In March 2023 detailed planning consent was granted by Cambridge County Council for a wholly new laboratory development in Sawston. The site is six miles south of Cambridge city centre and ten minutes’ drive from the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The South Cambridge Science Centre as it is known, comprises 138,000 square feet of new laboratory space aimed at the life science and biomedical industry. The development offers high specification laboratories in flexible floorplans with lowest cost rent in the region. The laboratory development is due to open in April 2025.
In July 2024 Cambridge City Council approved the development of a life science campus on the Westbrook Centre. The proposal is for the removal of four existing office blocks and the erection of three purpose-built blocks in a sustainable campus.
In August 2024, Trinity College Cambridge received planning approval for a five-storey scheme at the Cambridge Science Centre. The proposed building will be a research and development office and laboratory. The aim is to be net carbon neutral.
The Great Kneighton area saw proposals for mixed-use developments incorporating laboratory spaces. These plans aim to create integrated communities where research facilities exist alongside residential and commercial areas.
Several applications focused on temporary laboratory facilities. These aimed to provide interim research space while larger, permanent developments progress through the planning system.
The Cambridge Southern Fringe area received applications for laboratory developments specifically targeting early-stage biotech companies. These included proposals for shared facilities and incubator spaces.
Future Laboratory Developments
In October 2024, South Cambridge Science Centre was granted detailed planning permission for its phase two development. This will entail the development of 44,600 square feet of additional high specification laboratories. Phase two is due to commence construction in July 2025 and complete in 2026.
Addenbrooke's Hospital campus saw applications for specialized medical research laboratories. These facilities aim to bridge the gap between clinical practice and research.
In Q4 2025, an additional 60,000 square feet of laboratories and offices are expected to become available at the Chesterford Research Park. The development is aimed at biotechnology, pharmaceutical and technology R&D companies. The park occupies 250 acres and is located near to Saffron Walden.
In 2026, the Merlin Place building in north Cambridge is scheduled to open. Merlin Place is a new 139,000 square feet office and laboratory development near Cambridge North station and Cambridge Science Park. The building is scheduled to comprise CL2 wet labs, dry labs and office space over six storeys.