Mission Street and BGO have won planning consent to deliver a one million sq ft urban science district in central Cambridge – one of the largest of its kind in the UK.
Cambridge City Council’s planning committee has approved plans for the scheme of seven buildings, which will be at Cherry Hinton, a 10-minute cycle from the central railway station.
Hawkins\Brown led the design along with a number of practices. Anchored by a central square, the pedestrianised scheme, which will be open to the public, will include fitness facilities, play space for children, a food and beverage offer and community events space. Provision has also been made for a programme of events.
Artem Korolev, chief executive of Mission Street, said: “Since our first consultation with local stakeholders and the Cherry Hinton community, we’ve said that this is about breaking down the barriers prevalent with traditional science parks, creating an open and inviting innovation district, and putting the science on show.
“This project embodies the principle that it is entirely possible to blend R&D space for world-leading innovators with community amenities that everyone can enjoy.”
“We look forward to engaging further with planning officers, the community and other statutory consultees, as we deliver a globally significant science destination that current and future generations will be proud of.”
Mission Street says there is demand for more than 600,000 sq ft of lab space in Cambridge, with a highly constrained active pipeline that cannot adequately meet growing demand levels. Demand is particularly high for inner-city R&D space.
During construction, the project is expected to create more than 800 jobs and £7 million of local expenditure, as well as apprenticeship and training programmes.
Once complete, it will accommodate almost 4,000 high-skilled jobs and occupiers will be mandated to pay the Cambridge Living Wage.
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