Mission Street and BGO, a leading global real estate investment manager, received planning consent to deliver a world-class 9.3-ha urban science district in central Cambridge.
Approved by Cambridge City Council’s planning committee subject to Section 106 and Conditions, the district will be just 10-minute cycle from the central railway station and will be developed on a site that has been unused for decades.
The district, which is one of the largest new urban science district developments in the UK, will facilitate a variety of research and development uses, catering to companies throughout their growth journey, from start-ups to large multinationals, within a single location. Innovative companies that have previously been forced to relocate or fragment their businesses will have the space to scale within the ecosystem, with the advantage of being part of a major science and technology cluster in a central location.
The scheme’s design has been led by master planners Hawkins\Brown in collaboration with other leading design practices. Anchored by a central square, the fully pedestrianised masterplan – open to the public – will create a destination for all ages, including units suitable for local businesses, fitness infrastructure, a threefold increase of play space for children, a diverse food and beverage offering and community events space.
Provision has also been made for an active programme of events such as Public Art including an Artist in Residence, and a STEM-based educational outreach partnership with the Cambridge Science Centre that is already being implementing in local schools.
“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,” said Artem Korolev, CEO, Mission Street. “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.”
Image provided by Monfort.
Written by Leon Goldwater for Europe Real Estate.
Europe Real Estate — an overview of real estate developments in European countries.
