Railpen, manager of the £34bn railways pension schemes in the UK, and a key investor in Cambridge, has opened a 3,300 sq ft state-of-the-art innovation hub, named the Glasshouse, in partnership with Innovate Cambridge. The Glasshouse is based on the first floor of Botanic House, an award-winning office building, and will act as a gateway for company founders and investors to access the city’s thriving innovation ecosystem.
Cambridge, renowned for its world-leading research and innovation, has raised £100bn of capital in the last decade alone and is projected to have the fastest employment growth in the UK over the next ten years. Managed by Innovate Cambridge, the Glasshouse will build on this momentum, acting as a platform for both local and global businesses to pioneer advancements that will continue to shape the future of knowledge intensive industries worldwide.
At a time when UK growth is top of the Government’s agenda, spaces like the Glasshouse will support young and scaling businesses within the technology, life sciences, and engineering sectors in sharing ideas, stimulating growth and connecting with likeminded innovators and investors.
Matthew Howard, Head of Property at Railpen, commented: “Railpen’s investment in Cambridge reflects its commitment to fostering long-term, sustainable growth in one of the world’s leading science and innovation hubs. We are achieving that by partnering with organisations already leading the way, such as Innovate Cambridge, working with them to deliver lasting value. The Glasshouse is a direct outcome of this approach, and will be a focal point where ideas can be shared, collaborations formed, and new solutions brought to life.”
Dr Kathryn Chapman, Executive Director at Innovate Cambridge, said: “The Glasshouse represents not only a dedicated physical space for breakthrough ideas but also the strength of the relationships driving Cambridge’s innovation engine. Railpen’s active investment in the region brings invaluable resources and momentum, and we can’t wait to work together to create an environment that enables innovators to connect with investors, business and government to get the support they need, ensuring that Cambridge remains at the cutting edge of innovation.”
Michael Anstey, Partner at Cambridge Innovation Capital, added: “Cambridge is a world leading innovation ecosystem, where the best minds converge to push the boundaries of science, technology, and entrepreneurship. With the launch of The Glasshouse, Railpen and Innovate Cambridge are creating an unparalleled gateway for global talent and investors to further connect with this vibrant ecosystem, ensuring that Cambridge continues to lead in shaping the future of knowledge-based industries.”
The Glasshouse is part of Railpen’s broader investment in Cambridge, which includes a cluster of sustainable, premium real estate assets. Key upcoming developments include Devonshire Gardens, offering eco-friendly office and residential space around a new park adjacent to the station, and Botanic Place, set to be the UK’s most sustainable speculative development outside London. These projects will provide exceptional workspaces for businesses, including life sciences, setting a new standard for innovation in the UK.
