Pioneer Group secures approval for Grafton Centre redevelopment

It is envisaged that up to 2,000 jobs from PhD to entry level will be created within the new science centre at the location. The western end of the centre will be retained and transformed into a more attractive destination for local shoppers, the council says.

The redevelopment will contribute towards addressing an acute demand and short supply of laboratories and offices in the Cambridge area – recognised as a national priority - whilst providing amenities for the local community and occupiers.

Key highlights of the approved redevelopment plan include long-term improvements to retail, with an anticipated £111.2 million extra economic impact on the surroundings. The council envisages potential positive environmental benefits, including +649 per cent biodiversity net gain and 18,500 tonnes carbon savings through repurposing existing buildings.

It also anticipates the creation of a sustainable research 'ecosystem' linking startups, experts and entrepreneurs in the life sciences sector plus a new community science lab/classroom with a programme of community outreach and STEM investment.

Cambridge City Council town planners welcomed the scheme as a "significant opportunity" to bring "strong benefits economically, socially and environmentally" to the Grafton Centre and the centre of Cambridge.

Richard O’Boyle, Chief Executive of Pioneer Group, said: “Cambridge is at the heart of the UK’s research industry, but new lab space is in short supply and desperately needed.

“By providing spaces suitable for international companies, small start-ups, and scale-ups in one building in the city centre, scientists here will be able to work together, as well as collaborate with mentors from Pioneer, researchers in the city’s amazing universities, and investors, to help them develop lifesaving new technologies.

“The scheme will also deliver new jobs near to where people live, encouraging more sustainable travel as well as helping local shops, cafes, and restaurants to thrive. We would like to thank all the neighbours, businesses, and local stakeholders who helped us refine and improve the designs to create an even better scheme.”

Timescales for the development and finer details of the planning niceties involved have not finally been slated but the council and developer are keen to work with local objectors and nail down a start and finish date as soon as humanly possible.