The Wellcome Genome Campus in Hinxton is poised for a significant expansion, with detailed plans now submitted for new research buildings and a community pub/restaurant.
The ambitious project, first granted outline permission in 2020, will ultimately triple the size of the globally recognised campus, renowned for its pivotal role in sequencing the human genome.
Developer Urban and Civic Hinxton Ltd has put forward proposals to South Cambridgeshire District Council for two new Research and Translation (R&T) buildings on land known as Parcel D, adjacent to the A1301. These buildings will deliver over 20,000 square metres of flexible laboratory and office space, catering to a diverse range of tenants, from early-stage startups to established biotechnology firms.
A substantial investment from Wellcome Trust will fund the construction, designed to provide adaptable spaces suitable for various scientific disciplines. The project represents a key milestone in the overall expansion, aiming to foster innovation and collaboration within the life science community.
Beyond the laboratories, the plans also include a ground-floor pub/restaurant, which will be open to both campus staff and the general public. The venue is envisioned as a versatile space, offering not only dining options but also bookable rooms for meetings or social gatherings, furthering the campus’s appeal as a vibrant destination.
The development of Parcel D is running in parallel with the construction of 1,500 new homes, approved last year as part of the larger expansion plan. Ultimately, the expanded campus will encompass 150,000 square metres of employment space, along with a range of shops, cafes, and leisure facilities.
Developers emphasise the careful consideration given to the design of the new laboratory buildings, recognising their prominent position at the main entrance to the extended campus. They aim to establish a high standard of development, attracting new occupiers and creating a strong sense of place. The carefully considered design will help to create easy navigation and connectivity between the existing campus and the new expansion land.
Wellcome Trust is committed to shaping a “unique destination” that supports a diverse and thriving life science community and this is set to establish the Wellcome Genome Campus as a leading centre for genomic research and innovation for years to come.
