The British Antarctic Survey’s (BAS) new scientific support and operations facility, the Discovery Building, is now coming into operational use at Rothera Research Station in Antarctica. Marking a major milestone for the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP), the facility consolidates the UK’s position in global polar research. Built to operate
A bold new proposal for what would be the UK’s largest data centre development has emerged, with plans submitted for a £7.6 billion hyperscale AI campus in North Lincolnshire. Located at the former RAF Elsham Wolds airfield near Scunthorpe, the ambitious Elsham Tech Park project would span 176 hectares and
The Oxford Science Park has secured planning permission for a new 80,000 sq ft best-in-class laboratory and office building, unlocking the next major phase of growth at the Park. The approved development will see the construction of a state-of-the-art four-storey building offering high-specification laboratory and office space tailored to the
Bowmer & Kirkland has been appointed as main contractor for the £180 million Fabrica development in Oxford, a major new addition to the city’s rapidly expanding West End innovation district. Set to begin construction in May 2025, the 180,000 sq ft scheme will deliver five storeys of high-quality laboratory and
Enabling works at Prologis Park Luton are well underway, marking the start of an exciting transformation for the former Vauxhall site on Osborne Road. With demolition and groundworks progressing on schedule, the site is set to be fully prepared for redevelopment to commence on site by Q3 2025. This major regeneration
Award-winning construction specialist McPhillips has successfully delivered a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for press manufacturer Bruderer UK. The 10,000 square metre bespoke factory and showroom at Hortonwood in Telford was completed on schedule and serves as the company’s new world class ‘competence centre’, replacing its former base in Luton. The facility
Network Space Developments (NSD) has submitted a full planning application for a cutting-edge employment development at the St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus. The Project Halo proposal relates to a five-acre council-owned site located off the A570 James Roby Way and seeks to deliver four state-of-the-art “Tech Box” units –
Mission Street, a specialist investor, developer and operator for the science and innovation sector, and BGO, the global real estate investment manager, have appointed leading construction and development company Bowmer + Kirkland on Fabrica, central Oxford’s largest commercial science scheme. Construction will begin in May 2025, marking the biggest UK
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
Construction firm Bowmer & Kirkland has been appointed as the main contractor for Fabrica, a £180 million, five-storey commercial development in the heart of Oxford designed to support the city’s growing science and innovation ecosystem. Set to begin in May 2025, the 180,000 sq ft scheme will provide high-specification laboratory
The British Antarctic Survey’s (BAS) new scientific support and operations facility, the Discovery Building, is now coming into operational use at Rothera Research Station in Antarctica. Marking a major milestone for the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP), the facility consolidates the UK’s position in global polar research. Built to operate year-round in one of the planet’s most extreme environments, the Discovery Building serves as the beating heart of Rothera. It brings together advanced facilities and critical services all under one roof, and will support science focused on climate, biodiversity and the Southern Ocean, ensuring Rothera’s polar research capabilities for decades to come. Features of the new Discovery Building include: The achievement comes as the AIMP continues to make progress with the final phase of construction ahead of the building’s formal handover later this year. The Discovery Building is already generating its own power and water, also acts as an IT hub, and is now distributing these essential site-wide services to other buildings across Rothera. These upgrades will help contribute towards BAS’ aim to reduce Rothera’s carbon emissions by an estimated 25%. As a result, BAS teams can operate safely and efficiently from the Discovery Building over the upcoming Antarctic winter, where staff can spend up to 24 hours in darkness. A core team will remain on station throughout the winter to prepare the building for full handover during the 2025/2026 season. The new facility will also improve the quality of life for BAS staff based in Rothera. New, modern shared spaces, updated amenities, and smarter building systems will make daily routines, easier, more efficient and safer, supporting the productivity and camaraderie of the Rothera community that is essential to life in such a remote and isolated environment. Elen Jones, AIMP Programme Director, British Antarctic Survey, said: “This is a defining moment for the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme. An operational Discovery Building marks the culmination of years of planning, collaboration, and innovation. This new facility is set to transform how we operate to enable science in the region and ensures BAS remains at the forefront of global efforts to understand and protect our changing planet.” Huw Jones, Executive Director at BAM, said: “Delivering a building of this stature in such a beautiful yet demanding environment is truly remarkable. Seeing the Discovery Building come to life is a testament to the precision, planning and commitment of everyone involved. With critical systems in the facility now operational, this milestone demonstrates the real-world impact of construction in Antarctica — supporting science, sustaining life and setting new standards in remote delivery. It reflects our commitment to building a sustainable tomorrow.” The AIMP is a long-term programme to support the UK’s polar research capabilities. Commissioned by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the AIMP will enable the UK to continue to deliver climate, biodiversity and ocean research and innovation in Antarctica. Together with the commissioning of the RRS Sir David Attenborough, the AIMP represents the largest Government investment in polar science infrastructure since the 1980s. The programme is delivered in partnership with construction partners BAM, Ramboll, Sweco, G&A Barnie Group, Turner & Townsend and Hugh Broughton Architects. Find out more: https://www.bas.ac.uk/polar-operations/aimp/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A bold new proposal for what would be the UK’s largest data centre development has emerged, with plans submitted for a £7.6 billion hyperscale AI campus in North Lincolnshire. Located at the former RAF Elsham Wolds airfield near Scunthorpe, the ambitious Elsham Tech Park project would span 176 hectares and deliver over 1.5 million square metres of data centre floorspace. The masterplan includes 15 high-capacity data halls, a major new energy centre, and supporting infrastructure designed to position Lincolnshire at the forefront of the UK’s digital and AI revolution. The development, led by Elsham Tech Park Ltd, seeks to support an IT load of 1,000MW—one of the highest targets ever proposed for a UK-based digital campus. It is designed to serve the exponential growth in demand for artificial intelligence processing, cloud computing, and high-volume data storage. Alongside the tech infrastructure, the campus is also being pitched as a green energy innovation hub. Plans include an on-site energy centre capable of generating up to 49.9MW, a large-scale battery storage compound, substations, a district heating facility, and flexible commercial space. A particularly novel element is the integration of heat reuse: surplus heat from server operations could be redirected to energy-intensive greenhouse agriculture, creating year-round food production opportunities and circular energy efficiencies. The proposed site would include new spine roads linking the 15 data zones, each capable of standalone delivery, offering flexibility in construction sequencing and operational rollout. Access would be via a primary route from the Flarepath industrial estate. Buildings are planned to range from 7 to 23 metres in height and would be visually softened by bunds up to 10 metres high and new woodland planting to help the project blend with the surrounding landscape. Construction is expected to span a 10-year period, creating between 2,600 and 3,600 full-time equivalent jobs annually across on-site and off-site activity. While the capital build cost is estimated at £7.6 billion, this figure excludes the high-value IT infrastructure that will be installed within the data halls. Breakdown of major cost areas includes: North Lincolnshire Council is actively seeking government recognition of the area as an AI Growth Zone—a designation that would fast-track planning, infrastructure delivery, and energy support. If successful, Elsham could soon become a key node in the UK’s digital infrastructure network. Should the scheme receive planning approval, the Elsham Tech Park would not only redefine Lincolnshire’s role in the digital economy but also mark a significant milestone in the UK’s race to build the next generation of AI-ready infrastructure. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Oxford Science Park has secured planning permission for a new 80,000 sq ft best-in-class laboratory and office building, unlocking the next major phase of growth at the Park. The approved development will see the construction of a state-of-the-art four-storey building offering high-specification laboratory and office space tailored to the needs of cutting-edge science and technology companies. Located at the eastern edge of The Oxford Science Park, the site is near the proposed new Cowley Branch Line, with a new station scheduled to open in early 2030, bringing direct links to central Oxford and London. Yong Shen, Director at The Oxford Science Park, said: “This is fantastic news for the Oxfordshire ecosystem and for the companies shaping the future of science and technology. This development allows us to offer more world-class facilities in an established setting that promotes collaboration, sustainability and discovery, further cementing The Oxford Science Park’s reputation as a leading destination for science and technology companies. My thanks go to everyone who worked on the planning application.” Designed with sustainability and community integration in mind, the development includes a 5.86% biodiversity net gain, extensive landscaping, improvements to the adjacent wildlife site, and enhanced cycle and pedestrian connectivity. Alongside 168 car parking spaces (25% with EV charging) and 104 bicycle spaces, the building itself will feature upgraded façades with anodised aluminium, high energy efficiency standards, and rooftop photovoltaic panels. The development will also deliver significant heritage enhancements. These include a public space showcasing archaeological discoveries and contributing to the setting of the nearby Grade II listed Minchery Priory. The unanimous decision by Oxford City Council follows extensive public engagement and marks another milestone in the park’s growth, following the unanimous approval of the 450,000 sq ft Daubeny Project in 2023. The expansion ensures Oxford remains competitive against global science hubs whilst enabling local communities to benefit from investment and employment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bowmer & Kirkland has been appointed as main contractor for the £180 million Fabrica development in Oxford, a major new addition to the city’s rapidly expanding West End innovation district. Set to begin construction in May 2025, the 180,000 sq ft scheme will deliver five storeys of high-quality laboratory and office space. Located on Botley Road, Fabrica is being developed by science and innovation specialist Mission Street and real estate investment manager BGO. The project is being hailed as a significant milestone for the UK’s science and technology sector, marking the largest construction start in the field during the first half of 2025. Groundworks and site preparation are already underway, carried out by Colemans, with completion of the building anticipated in early 2027. Fabrica is also set to break new ground in sustainability and social impact. It is the first commercial science building in the UK to target a BREEAM Outstanding rating, and it will become Oxford’s first Living Wage building—ensuring that all employees working within it earn at least the Living Wage. Colin Brown, development director at Mission Street, said: “Following a collaborative, positive procurement process, Bowmer & Kirkland will shortly take forward the science and innovation sector’s biggest construction start of 2025 so far. As science companies increasingly look to central Oxford for its extensive amenities and unrivalled transport connections—including the future East West Rail link—Fabrica’s delivery represents a major vote of confidence in the UK market.” The scheme is the second phase of Oxford’s Central Science District, following the recent completion of Mission Street and BGO’s Inventa project. The wider pipeline from the joint venture spans 1.5 million sq ft across Oxford, Cambridge, and Bristol. Neil Brook, group construction director at Bowmer & Kirkland, added: “Our teams approached this project collaboratively from the outset, allowing us to complete the tender process in just 10 weeks. We look forward to starting on-site at the end of May with a 96-week programme.” Bowmer & Kirkland is also supporting Mission Street and BGO’s District East development in Cambridge, where it is engaged under a pre-construction services agreement for the 23-acre science campus. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Enabling works at Prologis Park Luton are well underway, marking the start of an exciting transformation for the former Vauxhall site on Osborne Road. With demolition and groundworks progressing on schedule, the site is set to be fully prepared for redevelopment to commence on site by Q3 2025. This major regeneration project will breathe new life into the area, delivering high-quality logistics space, job opportunities and a site that is accessible to and celebrates the history of the local community. The units can be delivered for occupation by September 2026. Prologis UK has been working closely with local heritage groups and Vauxhall enthusiasts to ensure the site’s rich automotive history is commemorated. Careful removal and preservation of ‘The Wheel’, originally built into the structure of Griffin House’s design studios, will allow for history to be honoured in the site’s next chapter. Former employees and car enthusiasts were given a final opportunity to bid farewell to Griffin House, a key part of Vauxhall’s legacy, before its demolition and visited the site recently to mark the moment with a parade of a number of landmark models, which were designed and developed at the location on display, including the Silver Bullet, Black Magic and Silver Aero. Vauxhall enthusiast, Adam King said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Prologis for opening the doors to Griffin House and giving us the opportunity to visit this important piece of Vauxhall’s history one last time. It means a great deal to our members and the wider community to mark the legacy of the site before its next chapter begins. “Our sincere thanks also go to the Winvic construction team for their support and care in making the visit possible.” The preservation of The Wheel is just the beginning of an ambitious placemaking strategy designed to connect Prologis Park Luton with the wider town. Additionally, a new pedestrian and cycle-friendly route will be created, providing direct access from Osborne Road to Luton’s town centre, further integrating the site into the local community and enhancing connectivity. Looking forward, Prologis Park Luton is set to become a centre for training and employment in the logistics sector. With planning permission recently granted for The Hub, a new flexible training facility dedicated to skills development that will support the growth of the industry and provide valuable training opportunities for local residents. Prologis Park Luton is projected to create 615 jobs, with The Hub facilitating apprenticeships, upskilling programmes and career development pathways for people looking to enter or progress within the logistics sector. Simon Perks, Capital Deployment Director at Prologis UK, said: “Prologis Park Luton offers an exciting opportunity for businesses looking to establish themselves in a prime logistics location. With cutting-edge facilities, excellent transport links and a strong focus on sustainability and skills development, this site is set to become a key hub for the logistics sector. We invite interested businesses to reach out and discover how they can be part of this transformative development.” For further information, visit https://www.prologis.co.uk/properties/our-parks/prologis-park-luton Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Award-winning construction specialist McPhillips has successfully delivered a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for press manufacturer Bruderer UK. The 10,000 square metre bespoke factory and showroom at Hortonwood in Telford was completed on schedule and serves as the company’s new world class ‘competence centre’, replacing its former base in Luton. The facility enables the manufacturing leader to offer live demonstrations of new presses, certified pre-owned machines and fully integrated turnkey solutions. McPhillips, which is also based in Telford, led the construction project as the main contractor, working in collaboration with local partners including Cyril Orchard Group for project management and Design & Planning Associates from Oswestry for architectural design. The new facility has been designed to showcase Bruderer’s advanced high-speed presses while supporting its workforce expansion to 14 employees. For the first time in 57 years of operating in the UK, the company has a purpose-built location to give customers a first-hand insight into its latest technology, as it looks to drive innovation in the production of pressed parts and components for the critical automotive, aerospace, construction, electronics, EV, food, medical and renewables sectors. Paul Inions, managing director of McPhillips said: “We’re pleased to have built this fantastic facility for Bruderer right here in Telford. “As a local firm ourselves, it’s great to see such significant investment in our area. Working alongside other Shropshire businesses on this project shows just what our region can deliver – world-class facilities that support manufacturing jobs and growth.” Adrian Haller, managing director of Bruderer UK, commented: “This isn’t just an investment in our business, it’s an investment in UK manufacturing. We want to show companies that we are here for the long haul, and we are serious about supporting our wide array of domestic clients for another five decades. “Being able to build a factory from scratch is a fantastic opportunity. We’ve brought together the best engineering minds and the latest technology to create what we believe is a true centre of excellence for presses and associated products.” This project continues McPhillips’ track record of delivering high-quality facilities across the Shropshire region. In the last five years, the company has delivered more than 140 projects as principal contractor with a value of £300million. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Network Space Developments (NSD) has submitted a full planning application for a cutting-edge employment development at the St Helens Manufacturing and Innovation Campus. The Project Halo proposal relates to a five-acre council-owned site located off the A570 James Roby Way and seeks to deliver four state-of-the-art “Tech Box” units – hybrid industrial and office buildings designed to meet the needs of life science advanced manufacturing occupiers. The scheme forms a key part of the Liverpool City Region Life Sciences Innovation Zone, which aims to stimulate innovation and create high-value jobs across the region. NSD was appointed by St Helens Borough Council as development manager for the site in 2023, following the Council’s acquisition of the land with support from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority. The company previously partnered with the Council to deliver the landmark £54 million Glass Futures adjacent to the site, a global centre of excellence for sustainable glass research and innovation. The site has already undergone extensive enabling works, including ground remediation, re-profiling, and the construction of a new estate road and roundabout arm at Langtree Way. These works, led by NSD, enhance connectivity with neighbouring developments and position the site as a “development-ready” location. The application seeks approval for four high specification Tech Box units ranging from 7,629 sq. ft to 31,484 sq. ft. Totalling 85,000 sq. ft they will offer high quality flexible employment space across use classes B2 (advanced manufacturing), B8 (storage/distribution), and E(g) (R&D laboratories, professional services, and ancillary offices). All will have adaptable layouts to accommodate bespoke tenant office and laboratory requirements. This sustainable scheme will include all electric air source heat pumps and photovoltaic roof panels to minimise operational energy, electric vehicle charging points, cycle parking and landscaping aligned with the decarbonisation goals of the St Helens Campus. Already home to flagship projects such as Glass Futures, SINA Medical Glass and Inovus Medical, the Campus has also aided the collaboration and expansion of existing tenants. The scheme has been designed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and will target BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ accreditation, reflecting the highest standards of environmental performance and design. The Project Halo development will target synergistic life science advanced manufacturing occupiers, bolstering St Helens’ position as a hub for innovation and manufacturing. The project aligns with the Liverpool City Region’s Life Sciences Innovation Zone Prospectus, which aims to create 8,000 jobs and unlock £800 million in public-private investment over 10 years. As part of this initiative, the St Helens Campus will focus on materials science and health technologies, complementing the region’s strengths in infectious disease research and AI-driven healthcare. Situated in a City Region Innovation Zone, any future occupiers will enjoy multiple benefits that include: full Stamp Duty Land Tax relief for land and buildings bought for commercial use or development for commercial purposes; 100% relief from business rates for 5 years on newly occupied business premises; Enhanced Capital Allowances of 100% first year allowance for companies’ qualifying expenditure on plant and machinery assets; and enhanced Structures and Buildings Allowance with accelerated relief allows businesses to reduce their taxable profits by 10% of the cost of qualifying non-residential investment per year, relieving 100% of their cost of structures and buildings over 10 years. Employer National Insurance Contributions Relief is also zero-rated for Employer NICs on salaries of any new employee based in the Zone for at least 60% of their time – on earnings up to £25,000 per year. This relief can be applied for up to 36 months per employee. NSD Development Director Joe Burnett said: “This application represents a pivotal step in realising the vision for a high-quality employment space that addresses a productivity gap within the manufacturing science sector. By attracting life sciences businesses, there is the potential to create hundreds of skilled jobs while reinforcing St Helen’s key role in the region’s Investment Zone.” Councillor Anthony Burns, St Helens Borough Council’s Leader said: “This is another major step forward for the growth and regeneration ambitions of St Helens. It isn’t just about shiny new buildings but more about raising aspirations and creating new opportunities for our residents. In this project we will support hi-tech businesses to start up or expand operations here in our great borough. This development proposal will build on the renewed focus of our borough as a world leader in manufacturing innovation, building on our rich history for a brighter future for our residents and communities.” Subject to approval, construction is anticipated to start in early 2026. Support for the Halo Project has been provided by Architects AEW, GWB Consultants, Stantec, Kaizen Consulting Engineers and Spawforths. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Mission Street, a specialist investor, developer and operator for the science and innovation sector, and BGO, the global real estate investment manager, have appointed leading construction and development company Bowmer + Kirkland on Fabrica, central Oxford’s largest commercial science scheme. Construction will begin in May 2025, marking the biggest UK science project to start in the first half of the year following the completion of groundworks and site preparation by Colemans. Expected to complete in early 2027, the 180,000 sq ft Fabrica scheme is located on Botley Road in Oxford’s West End, the city’s only innovation district within walking distance of the main train station, university and city centre amenities. Arranged across five floors, Fabrica has been designed with high flexibility to accommodate the evolving requirements of science and innovation companies. The scheme will also provide over 7,000 sq ft of amenities including an F&B offering open to both occupiers and the wider public, intended to bridge the gap between science and the community. Fabrica is the first commercial science building in the UK to target a BREEAM Outstanding certification, and is designed to the highest sustainability standards, including EPC A and WiredScore Platinum. It will also be Oxford’s first Living Wage building, requiring all employees working within it to receive a Living Wage or higher. Bowmer + Kirkland will engage the local workforce in the scheme’s construction as part of its procurement commitments. Fast becoming one of the science and innovation sector’s leading contractors, Bowmer + Kirkland is also engaged under a Pre-Contract Services Agreement at Mission Street and BGO’s 23-acre District East in Cambridge, among the UK’s largest planned science schemes. Selected by Mission Street for its extensive track record, Bowmer + Kirkland has completed 2.6 million sq ft in the last five years, at a total value of £661 million. Colin Brown, development director at Mission Street, said: “Following a collaborative, positive procurement process, Bowmer + Kirkland will shortly take forward the science and innovation sector’s biggest construction start of 2025 so far. As science companies increasingly look to central Oxford for its extensive amenities and unrivalled transport connections, which will include the future link to East West Rail, Fabrica’s delivery represents a major vote of confidence in the UK market.” Fabrica marks the second phase of Oxford’s Central Science District, following the completion of Mission Street and BGO’s Inventa scheme in 2024. Inventa was the first commercial science building to complete in Oxford’s West End, solidifying Mission Street as a first mover in the country’s largest emerging science and innovation district, which has a wider pipeline of 2.5 million sq ft of academic and commercial space. Inventa has attracted some of Oxford’s most exciting innovation companies, including 3D genomics pioneer Nucleome, with further announcements due shortly. Neil Brook, Group Construction Director at Bowmer + Kirkland, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed as the construction partner for this exciting and innovative lab, office, and collaboration space in the heart of Oxford, strengthening our existing relationship with Mission Street and BGO in the rapidly evolving life sciences sector. “Our teams approached this project collaboratively from the start, allowing us to complete the tender process in just 10 weeks. We look forward to starting on-site at the end of May with a 96-week programme.” The joint venture between Mission Street and BGO has a wider pipeline of 1.5 million sq ft across the UK’s prime science and innovation districts in Oxford, Cambridge and Bristol. Earlier this month, the partnership completed construction of the second phase of The Press, Cambridge, delivering 100,000 sq ft into the Cambridge market, having secured the scheme’s first occupier, Syndex Bio. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
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
Construction firm Bowmer & Kirkland has been appointed as the main contractor for Fabrica, a £180 million, five-storey commercial development in the heart of Oxford designed to support the city’s growing science and innovation ecosystem. Set to begin in May 2025, the 180,000 sq ft scheme will provide high-specification laboratory and office space on Botley Road, within Oxford’s West End innovation district. The project is being led by Mission Street, a specialist in science and innovation developments, in partnership with real estate investment manager BGO. Fabrica is positioned as a game-changer for the UK’s science property market. It aims to be the first commercial science building in the country to achieve BREEAM Outstanding status, a globally recognised benchmark for sustainability in construction. In addition, the building will be Oxford’s first Living Wage-certified workplace, ensuring all employees working on-site are paid at or above the Living Wage. This major development follows successful groundworks and site preparation completed by Colemans, with overall project completion targeted for early 2027. Bowmer & Kirkland’s appointment comes after a fast-tracked procurement process and adds to their growing involvement in the UK’s science and technology sector. The company is also supporting early-stage work on District East, a major 23-acre science scheme in Cambridge led by the same developer-partnership. Colin Brown, development director at Mission Street, commented: “Fabrica represents the most significant UK science construction start of 2025 so far. The scheme reflects strong demand from science and tech firms seeking centrally located, highly connected spaces in Oxford, particularly with the future East West Rail link on the horizon.” The development forms the second phase of Oxford’s Central Science District, building on the completion of the Inventa scheme in 2024. The Mission Street and BGO joint venture continues to expand its influence across key innovation hubs, with a pipeline of over 1.5 million sq ft of projects spanning Oxford, Cambridge and Bristol. Neil Brook, group construction director at Bowmer & Kirkland, added: “We approached this project with a collaborative mindset from the outset, enabling us to complete the tender process in just ten weeks. We’re excited to start work on site with a 96-week build programme ahead.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals