St John’s College and development manager Turnstone Estates have confirmed submission of a detailed planning application for two additional office and R&D buildings and new transport hub in the north western corner of St John’s Innovation Park, Cambridge.
Part of the college’s long-term strategic vision for the Park, the proposed two-phased development will consist of the construction of two 85,000 sq ft Class B1 office and R&D buildings and a new transport hub, to incorporate parking, landscaping and infrastructure. In addition, the transport hub will provide a gym available for all Park occupiers to utilise, extensive cycle storage, shower facilities for both cyclists and gym users and a cycle repair facility.
Subject to planning approval, it is anticipated that the first phase of development, the construction of the first building – the Dirac Building (named after Paul Dirac, Nobel Prize winner for physics in 1933 and fellow of St John’s College from 1969 until his death in 1984) – and the transport hub, will begin in 2021 and be ready for occupation in the first quarter of 2023. The start date for the second phase of development is yet to be confirmed.
St John’s College is particularly mindful of the environmental impact of both the construction and onward management of the new buildings. Designed by Sheppard Robson, one of the UK’s most established firm of architects, whose founding principles of innovation and sustainability are key elements of its practice, this next phase of development is not only architecturally striking – of particular note are the external cut-aways, multiple balconies and terraces – but has also been designed with ‘intelligent building’ and ‘smart office’ best practice principles in mind. By using technology and process the resulting buildings will be a safer and more productive environment for occupiers, as well enjoy greater operational efficiency. In addition, the development is targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and a WiredScore Platinum Certification.
Tim Deacon, Director, Turnstone said: “This next phase of development at St John’s Innovation Park is extremely exciting; delivering not only accessible, well-connected, best-in-class buildings for future occupiers, but also enriching the Park landscape for all with an excellent balance between the built and natural environment. Taking the wider view, it is also an opportunity to directly impact and support the continued growth of the Cambridge economy, through the provision of workspaces which resonate with the next generation of innovators in R&D and technology.”
Suzie Wood, Investment Property Manager, St John’s College added: “Our proactive approach to developing the Park enables us to continue to support the growth of organisations already in occupation in addition to welcoming new ventures. This next phase of development will not only enable growth but will also benefit the health and well-being of all those at the Park, through the provision of additional amenity and enhanced public realm.”
