MULTI-disciplinary consultancy Pulse Consult is working closely with the University of Warwick Science Park to refurbish its Vanguard Centre, a building that dates back to the 1970s, enhancing existing facilities to better support research and innovation within the Life Sciences sector.
Working under direct award, the £6m project will deliver approx. 13,600 sq ft of dedicated premium lab space and 8,000 sq ft of office space. The ground floor will be converted into 13 individual premium accessible R&D laboratory spaces with flexibility to be connected to support growth.
The first floor will house eight offices, a collection of modern meeting rooms, inspiring collaborative workspaces and a social and events area. This will provide university research partners and commercial tenants with additional space to conduct pioneering research.
Jason Fretter, director at Pulse Consult, said: “We recognise the vital role that well-designed, functional facilities play in driving innovation and research. That’s why we are particularly pleased to have been appointed to deliver this project, building on our strong existing relationship with the University of Warwick and supporting the successful refurbishment of the Vanguard Centre.
“By creating premium accessible R&D laboratories and flexible office spaces tailored to the evolving needs of researchers and commercial partners, we hope this project will not only enhance the campus but also attract top talent and pioneering activity to the region. We are excited to collaborate with the University of Warwick Science Park to bring this innovative space to life and support the cutting-edge research that will shape the future.”
The refurbishment incorporates a range of sustainability measures including new windows, added insulation to external walls and infill panels on both floors using CLT timber. Electric heating has been installed with plans for future PV panels, all contributing to an improved EPC rating.
Pulse Consult is providing project management, quantity surveying and employer’s agent services, drawing on its longstanding relationships with university contacts to ensure the project runs smoothly. Completion is scheduled for Autumn 2026.
Emma Turner, business development manager at the University of Warwick Science Park, said: “The transformation of the Vanguard Centre will put the Science Park at the forefront of conversations across the industry with incoming companies benefiting from high-quality, flexible working spaces, collaborative and coworking opportunities and benefiting from links with a top-ranked university.
“Availablity of lab space within the region is a challenge for many businesses needing to find suitable premises and is at a significant premium due to lack of supply in areas of high demand.
“The Vanguard Centre will relieve some of this pressure, and the space will be priced competitively without compromising on quality.
“We’re confident the Vanguard Centre would make the perfect base for companies in need of modern R&D space with competitive pricing and attention to detail being given at every stage of this project.”
For more information, visit www.pulseconsult.co.uk.
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