Major new life sciences development planned

Chesterford Research Park has appointed Glencar to undertake construction of its new Sidney Sussex Building, which is expected to deliver over 60,000 sq ft of laboratory and office space.

Owned by Aviva Investors, the global asset management business of Aviva plc, alongside Uttlesford District Council, Chesterford Research Park provides 250 acres of advanced laboratory and office space for biotechnology, pharmaceutical and technology R&D companies of all sizes to prosper.

Under current proposals, the Park will increase its capacity to approximately one million sq ft, of which approximately 350,000 sq ft is already occupied.

The new three-storey Sidney Sussex Building, which is expected to be ready for occupation from Q4 2025, is expected to deliver an additional 60,000 sq ft across ten individual, flexible R&D suites ranging from 2,226 sq ft to 8,409 sq ft.

It will also house communal meeting rooms.

A spokesman says that sustainability is a fundamental element in the building’s design, which includes renewable energy sources and daylighting strategies to minimise carbon emissions. There will also be significant tree planting, bird and bat boxes and provision for a new pond, to enhance existing parkland.

Julian Cobourne, Head of Regional Investment Management at Aviva Investors, said,

“We are pleased to continue progress in the creation of the Sidney Sussex Building, which will significantly enhance the breadth and depth of facilities at Chesterford Research Park.

“We believe this will reinforce the Park’s reputation as a leading location for some of the leading global names in life science, enabling our existing community to continue growing here whilst also attracting new occupiers.

“We are pleased to play a part in supporting the UK life science sector and continuing to invest into the Cambridgeshire region.”

Eddie McGillycuddy, CEO, Glencar added: “We are absolutely delighted to be part of Chesterford Research Park’s ambitious expansion plans. This project is not only a testament to our growing expertise in life sciences construction but also a significant addition to our portfolio, following other successful projects we have delivered and are delivering currently at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.”

Chesterford Research Park’s owners are advised by the Park’s joint commercial agents, Savills and Cheffins and development partners the Churchmanor Estates Company plc.