Bruntwood SciTech advances 200,000 sq ft Alderley Park plans
The company has submitted a full planning application for labs and offices across two buildings, part of the ongoing regeneration of the former AstraZeneca site.
Bruntwood SciTech – the 50:50 joint venture between the developer and Legal & General – wants to deliver 100,000 sq ft of lab space and the same amount of office accommodation, under the latest phase of development at Alderley Park.
The five-storey lab building would provide space suitable for biology and chemistry uses, while the six-storey office block would feature a range of spaces available on a variety of lease agreements.
Both buildings are aimed at companies working in the life sciences, technology and healthcare sectors, “particularly those working in drug discovery and development, diagnostics, digital health and AI sectors,” according to Bruntwood SciTech.
The two buildings would be the first newly built commercial space to be delivered at Alderley Park since Bruntwood acquired the 400-acre global R&D site in 2014 for around £40m.
In addition to the commercial elements, Bruntwood has also lodged plans for the redevelopment of a former office building into 109 one-bedroom and studio apartments aimed at young graduates working in the life sciences and technology sectors on the campus.
The project team comprises Avison Young, Bridge Architects, Fairhurst Design Group, Leach Rhodes Walker, Buro Happold, Booth King, RBA and Planit-IE.
“The life sciences sector has seen major growth in the UK over the last decade and the UK is now seeing a significant lack of available lab space,” said Dr Kath Mackay, director of life sciences at Bruntwood SciTech. “This has the potential to hamper further growth if supply is not boosted.”
She added: “It is vital that we play our role in supporting investment into specialist infrastructure – unlocking growth to meet this growing demand, and keeping knowledge and innovation within the UK.
“At Alderley Park, we are committed to providing best-in-class life sciences facilities and these new plans are the next step in that journey. We will continue to support science and technology businesses across the UK and internationally, providing a global home for innovation and collaboration.”
Alderley Park is home to a growing number of life science and tech firms including Cancer Research UK and SAP. The 150,000 sq ft, £30m, Glasshouse was the last element of Alderley Park to complete.
