A transformational £1bn development aimed at revolutionising cancer research and treatment has taken a major step forward, as plans are officially submitted for a world-leading innovation centre in Sutton, south London. Property investment firm Aviva Capital Partners and mixed-use developer Socius have submitted a comprehensive planning application to the London Borough of Sutton, seeking approval to significantly expand the existing London Cancer Hub. If approved, the development will turn a 12-acre site into a vibrant, collaborative ecosystem for cancer research, combining state-of-the-art laboratories, specialist facilities, and community-focused amenities. Located adjacent to The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, the proposed development aims to create one of the most ambitious life sciences clusters in Europe, dedicated solely to oncology. The design team, which includes renowned architect Gensler and global engineering consultancy Arup, has put forward plans for over one million square feet of advanced research and laboratory space. The aim is to bring together pharmaceutical giants, pioneering life sciences start-ups, academic researchers, and clinicians to accelerate breakthroughs in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The development isn’t just about buildings—it’s about building a community. At the heart of the proposal is a vision for an open, interconnected campus that fosters innovation through proximity and purpose-built collaboration spaces. From top-tier wet labs and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) facilities to flexible workspaces for smaller biotech firms, the site will cater to a wide range of scientific needs. Modern office spaces and shared amenities will help foster the exchange of ideas and create an inclusive environment that draws in talent from across the country—and beyond. To support those working within the hub, the plans also include new lifestyle and community offerings. Around 220 affordable homes for key workers are proposed, alongside a selection of cafes and restaurants to create a lively campus feel. A crèche will provide vital support for working families, while a ‘Learning Lab’ with educational facilities aims to inspire local students and nurture the next generation of scientists, clinicians, and innovators. The planning application is now in the hands of the London Borough of Sutton, with a decision expected in 2025. If approved, the development will mark a significant milestone not only for Sutton but for the UK’s wider ambition to become a global leader in life sciences and healthcare innovation. Socius Managing Director Barry Jessup believes the London Cancer Hub represents a rare and powerful opportunity to reshape how cancer research is conducted. “There is a unique opportunity at the London Cancer Hub to deliver state-of-the-art lab and research facilities alongside two world-renowned institutions, The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden, to supercharge investment into cancer research,” he said. “Our plans are not just about delivering new facilities to attract cutting-edge businesses; it is about reorienting the district so there is better connectivity between the buildings, more natural ‘collision points’ and places to meet to drive collaboration and innovation.” The proposed layout of the campus places significant emphasis on the human experience—replacing isolated institutional buildings with a connected urban framework that encourages social interaction, knowledge sharing, and a sense of community. Outdoor spaces, pedestrian routes, and green infrastructure will all play a role in shaping the district into an accessible and attractive destination for workers, researchers, and visitors alike. Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of the London Borough of Sutton, hailed the submission as a major step towards fulfilling the borough’s strategic vision. “The London Cancer Hub will position Sutton as London’s global centre for oncology,” he stated. “Already recognised as a leading life science cluster in the capital, the site’s uniqueness lies in its current delivery of world-class cancer research, discoveries, and treatment all within a single location.” He continued: “The life science sector and associated development will be pivotal to the future growth of the capital over the coming years, as recognised by the Mayor of London’s growth plan that names the London Cancer Hub as the key engine for this growth. The submission of this planning application marks a significant step forward in this exciting development for Sutton and the capital.” The London Cancer Hub already enjoys a reputation for excellence, with The Royal Marsden and The Institute of Cancer Research frequently cited among the world’s leading institutions in oncology. This new development aims to build on that legacy by creating the infrastructure and environment needed to attract global investment, cutting-edge start-ups, and top-tier scientific talent. With the NHS under increasing pressure and the global demand for advanced cancer treatment and research growing rapidly, this expansion could not come at a more critical time. It signals a bold, proactive step by both public and private sectors to ensure the UK remains at the forefront of medical innovation—while also delivering real economic benefits through job creation, regeneration, and global competitiveness. The £1bn Sutton development stands to become not only a beacon of hope for those affected by cancer but also a vital driver of future economic growth. If approved, it will be a powerful demonstration of how long-term vision, cross-sector collaboration, and investment in science and health can reshape cities and save lives. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Plans to create a brand-new state-of-the-art Acoustics building as part of Crescent Salford’s innovation zone have been accepted by Salford City Council. The University of Salford submitted the plans to create a world-class facility to house the research, commercial and teaching activities of its globally recognised acoustics group at the start of the year. Today Salford City Council announced that plans for the 1,300m2 building have been accepted and it is expected work will begin on site this summer, taking around 18 months to complete. The site is a key part of the University of Salford’s multi-million pound Campus Connectivity Plan, which is the most ambitious redevelopment of research, teaching and public spaces that the University has ever undertaken. The new facility represents an investment into acoustics of international scale, drawing together an impressive range of testing equipment of the highest technical specification to underpin the most rigorous acoustic measurements. Each space in the new building will enable active research by one of the largest acoustics groups in the world, supported by the hands-on expertise of specialist technical staff. The University of Salford has been delivering world-leading research in acoustics for over six decades, working with some of the biggest brands in manufacturing to ensure their products emit acceptable levels of noise. Salford’s research has fed into the development of products that companies make and sell worldwide, as well as regulations and standards used in the UK and internationally. Most recently, Salford’s experts have worked on projects to manage drone noise, develop e-scooter alarm noises and make forklift trucks safer in a work environment. The new centre will see an increase in the research, innovation and development that the University of Salford Acoustics team will be able to offer. The Acoustics building will also sit in Crescent Innovation, which forms part of the wider £2.5bn, 240-acre Crescent Salford masterplan being delivered by the Crescent Partnership, comprising the University of Salford, Salford City Council and ECF – a joint partnership between Homes England, L&G and Muse. The 29-acre Crescent Innovation area lies north of the University’s Peel Park campus and the building will be located on a former industrial site on Lissadel Street. It will build on existing research and development capabilities to drive further economic growth in Salford and facilitate enhanced links between academia, research and business. The Acoustics building marks the next step in the creation of Crescent Innovation, after work began on Salford Rise last September. Morgan Sindall Construction is working on the building, having previously collaborated with the University on the creation of multiple new learning environments including the North of England Robotics Innovation Centre, which is also within Crescent Innovation. Director of the National Institute of Airborne Acoustic Metrology at the University of Salford, Claire Lomax said: “The whole acoustics team at Salford are thrilled planning consent has been granted for this globally unique building. Every person on earth is affected by what they can or cannot hear, which is why acoustics as a science is so significant. “To have this facility in Salford shows the University’s commitment to innovation to enrich lives – in this case through pioneering research, impacting policy and industry standards, and shaping products sold worldwide.” In line with the latest sustainability standards, the all-electric building will target a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ and utilise low-energy and low-carbon technologies to minimise energy consumption and reduce the carbon footprint of the building. Max Bentham, Development Director at ECF, said: “With plans now approved for the Acoustics building, we’re looking forward to this state-of-the-art facility coming to life and bringing world-class research potential to Crescent Innovation. “The highly sustainable building will function as a training hub for the next generation of acoustics experts, offering cutting-edge research facilities aimed at enhancing quality of life by reducing the harm caused by noise. Bringing industry and education together, it will further cement Salford as a leader in this field. “With Salford Rise on site and work on Willohaus set to complete next year, the approval of plans for the Acoustics building marks an exciting next step in the creation of the Crescent Salford masterplan. As momentum builds, the vision is becoming a reality.” Steven Gregory, Morgan Sindall Construction’s area director for the North West said: “We’re very proud to be part of the team that will deliver another world-class facility for Salford University and the wider Crescent Salford innovation zone. We can’t wait to get started in the summer.  “In our delivery of other projects on campus, we have developed a close, collaborative working relationship with the University. On this latest scheme, we will again ensure our presence brings wider benefits to the University’s students as well as the wider Salford community.”  Paul Dennett, Salford City Mayor, said: “This state-of-the-art Acoustics building will be an incredible addition to the growing Crescent Innovation zone, building on the completed North of England Robotics Innovation Centre and Salford Rise, which is due to complete next year. This new development will reinforce our city’s reputation as a hub for cutting-edge research and development and aligns perfectly with the Council’s Corporate Plan objectives, by driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities for skills development. By investing in world-class facilities like this, the University are not only supporting our local economy, but contributing to global advancements in acoustics, that will improve lives for generations to come.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

GMI Construction Group has announced the practical completion of Citylabs 4.0, a state-of-the-art, 125,000 sq. ft laboratory and workspace development in Manchester. Delivered on behalf of Bruntwood SciTech and in joint venture with Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT), the £42m project is the latest addition to the Citylabs campus, a thriving innovation hub for diagnostics, medtech, digital health, and genomics businesses. Situated within the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust campus, England’s largest NHS Trust, Citylabs 4.0 provides a world-class environment for start-ups, scale-ups, and global corporates in life sciences and healthcare technology. Through Bruntwood SciTech’s unique partnerships and co-location with MFT, the development offers direct access to the NHS, leading academic institutions, and over 20,000 STEM graduates annually, making it an ideal setting for businesses at the forefront of medical advancements. The seven-storey facility features cutting-edge infrastructure tailored to the needs of businesses in precision medicine, diagnostics, biotech, medtech, AI-driven healthcare, and genomics. Key specifications include containment level 1 and 2 biology and chemistry labs, enhanced cooling and ventilation systems, and high-capacity floor loading to support specialist equipment. Designed with sustainability at its core, Citylabs 4.0 is Net Zero carbon in construction and operation of shared spaces. The building is fully electric with an EPC A rating, BREEAM Very Good certification, and a NABERS 5-star rating. It incorporates 208m² of solar panels and a highly energy-efficient cladding system made from 75% recycled post-consumer aluminium, setting a new benchmark for sustainable development in the life sciences sector. Anthony Judge, Regional Director, North West, at GMI Construction Group, said: “The practical completion of Citylabs 4.0 is a milestone for GMI and further strengthens its partnership with Bruntwood SciTech. This facility will drive innovation in healthcare by providing specialist space for companies working on pioneering medical solutions. We are extremely proud to have delivered a development that not only enhances Manchester’s position as a global leader in life sciences, but one that prioritises sustainability and collaboration.” The contract is worth £33mto GMI, which is also delivering the nearby £87m No 3 Circle Square development for Bruntwood SciTech. The 287,000 sq. ft of sustainable office space is due for completion this Spring. Citylab’s 4.0  was designed by Sheppard Robson, with contributions from Arup, Hilson Moran, Gardiner & Theobald, and Layers. It has been supported by a £32m senior loan from the North West Evergreen Fund, managed by CBRE’s Investment Advisory team, which is part of CBRE Capital Advisors. Part of the wider Citylabs masterplan, already home to major players such as Qiagen, APIS Assay Technologies, and Takagi, it expands the campus from 192,000 sq. ft to 327,000 sq. ft. The hub is surrounded by some of the UK’s most eminent teaching hospitals, including Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Saint Mary’s Hospital and the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital – all part of MFT. Sitting at the heart of the city’s health and life science cluster, it is surrounded by world-class research centres including Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, The University of Manchester Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, two of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Manchester Clinical Research Facility sites, the Pankhurst Institute, and the operational home of the NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre. Life science businesses at Citylabs also gain access to the Oxford Road Corridor knowledge quarter, which is home to more than half of the city’s life science businesses and generates around £3bn GVA each year. The hub is also a government-designated High Potential Opportunity Zone for Diagnostics and Healthy Ageing. Dr Kath Mackay, Chief Scientific Officer for Bruntwood SciTech, the UK’s largest property platform dedicated to the growth of science, tech and innovation sectors, added: “Citylabs 4.0 is a significant milestone in the continued evolution of Manchester’s world-leading life sciences ecosystem. The campus has already played a crucial role in supporting pioneering healthcare businesses to scale and work in direct collaboration with the NHS, and this latest development further cements its position as a location for scientific breakthroughs and innovation. By bringing together industry and the NHS we’re creating a collaborative environment where innovation can thrive, ultimately leading to real-world healthcare advancements that will benefit patients across Greater Manchester and beyond.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Kadans Science Partner (“Kadans”), a leading European investor in the development of ecosystems and real estate with a dedicated focus on knowledge-intensive sectors, has commenced construction on its purpose-built laboratory facility, Versa. As the second project to be delivered by Kadans within the Tileyard Quarter in King’s Cross, London, this is a significant milestone for both the area and London’s life science sector more generally. Due to complete in Q2 2026, and located at 4 Brandon Road, Versa will provide 51,500 sq ft of space, designed to accommodate a range of uses from CL2 labs to dedicated production and pilot spaces, supplying key King’s Cross specialisms including biomedical, life science, data, and precision medicine with cutting-edge facilities tailored to the needs of pioneering companies and individuals. The four storey building will also include best-in-class amenities, such as dedicated cycle parking, on-site showers and private, landscaped external space for occupiers to enjoy, improving wellbeing, productivity and knowledge sharing. This construction milestone extends Kadans’ commitment to Tileyard Quarter and London’s life science cluster, having recently launched its neighbouring 114,000 sq ft hub, Mayde, at the end of 2024. Versa will supplement the existing facilities at Mayde, where tenants can access high quality GMP and pilot manufacturing facilities, fully operated CAT B spaces and CAT A labs complimented by associated write up, specifically designed to support expansion from research and development into commercialisation. The combination of these two buildings sets an exciting platform for Kadans’ further development plans to deliver over 300,000 sq ft of high specification laboratory, office and manufacturing space at Tileyard Quarter. Occupiers of these spaces will not only benefit from access to Kadans’ wider, global support network of occupiers and partners but those situated within the Tileyard Quarter will also be part of a close-knit community of academics, creatives, independent businesses, and clinicians across King’s Cross. Will Fogden, Head of Investment and Development at Kadans Science Partner, said: “Versa will be an enabler of Kadans’ growing ecosystem at King’s Cross, offering flexible, turn-key spaces designed to evolve with our tenants’ needs. Tileyard Quarter is more than just buildings, it’s a dynamic, mixed-use innovation district addressing the demand for space that fosters discovery, development, and collaboration. “Kadans doesn’t deliver standard work or lab space. We pride ourselves on being experts in creating bespoke facilities that are curated to our occupiers’ needs and we are excited to continue delivering this world-class space here in King’s Cross. “We would like to extend our thanks to Morgan Sindall and our other project partners including David Miller Architects, PSK, CB3, HDR, Hoare Lea and Steer for the collaborative role in bringing this shared vision to life.” Richard Dobson, Morgan Sindall Construction’s Area Director for London, said: “This groundbreaking ceremony at King’s Cross marks a key milestone in the development of what will be an important cornerstone of London’s dynamic health and life sciences sector. Once complete, Versa, 4 Brandon Road, will boost the amount of specialist labs and R&D space in the burgeoning Tileyard Quarter, complementing the facilities that have already been delivered in the now operational Mayde, 5-10 Brandon Road. We look forward to continuing our close collaboration with Kadans during the development and can’t wait to see what innovations and ideas will be born in this facility in the future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

McLaren Construction Midlands and North has announced its involvement in the prestigious Birmingham England Temple project for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The scheme, which is set to re-define the local landscape, officially commenced with a groundbreaking ceremony on 22nd March, attended by over 300 guests which was live streamed globally on YouTube. The project involves the demolition of an existing administrative building to make way for a new Temple and ancillary building that will house office space and living accommodation. Alongside the construction of the Temple and accommodation block, McLaren will oversee the renovation of the existing meeting house and extensive landscaping works, including the planting of mature trees to enhance the natural surroundings, to be complete and well-established by project handover. The new two-storey accommodation block will be built with a steel frame and brick façade, complemented by bespoke stonework. The Temple itself will feature a central 38-metre-high spire and a stone façade, designed with exceptional craftsmanship. The contractor will manage the installation of new electrical, mechanical, and ancillary systems, including water supply, fire protection, and advanced security measures, to ensure the facility operates to the highest standards. Such a high-profile project presents several key challenges – the site, located in a predominantly residential area, requires careful planning and co-ordination to mitigate disruption to neighbouring properties. The formation of a new entrance from Penns Lane involves diverting multiple services, adding another layer of complexity, while the procurement of a specific shade of limestone from a Portuguese quarry is essential to maintaining consistency with other Temples constructed worldwide. One of the most striking features of the project is the 38-metre spire, which is being constructed directly under the flight path of Birmingham Airport. This requires close coordination with aviation authorities to ensure compliance with safety regulations. The Birmingham England Temple project will be built to the highest standards, with a focus on bespoke design elements, including carved stone façades, custom joinery, and feature lighting. The scheme is set to target a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, reflecting McLaren’s commitment to sustainable building practices. Luke Arnold, Operations Director at McLaren, said: “We are honoured to be entrusted with such a significant project that carries deep meaning for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and its global community. This is not just a construction project, but a testament to the Church’s vision and legacy. Our team is dedicated to delivering an exceptional standard of craftsmanship and quality that reflects the sacred purpose of the Birmingham England Temple.” McLaren Construction Midlands and North is committed to delivering a world-class facility that will serve the Church and the wider community for generations to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals