Our proposals for the redevelopment of the Grafton Centre in Cambridge have been given the green light.
Cambridge City Council today granted planning approval marking a crucial step forward in the transformation of this central shopping location which has been in decline over recent years.
Initiated by Pioneer Group – a leading developer and operator of life science and high-tech campuses – The Grafton Centre will undergo a comprehensive revitalisation; a large area of the existing shopping centre will be converted into laboratory and office space for start-ups, small businesses, and established companies in the science and technology industry – a sector which is growing and needs more space across the city.
The western end of the centre will also be renovated to provide an improved experience for local shoppers. New public areas, including a public roof-top square, will ensure that the retained retail provision is higher quality to ensure its long-term success and viability.
The redevelopment will make a major contribution towards addressing an acute demand and short supply of laboratories within Cambridge, recognised as a national priority.
Key highlights of the approved redevelopment plan include:
- Long term improvements to retail, with an anticipated £111.2 million extra economic impact on the surroundings
- Positive environmental benefits, including +538% biodiversity net gain and 18,500 tonnes carbon savings through repurposing existing buildings
- Up to 2,000 jobs from PhD to entry level created within the new science centre
- Creating a sustainable research ‘ecosystem’ linking start-ups, experts and entrepreneurs in the life sciences sector
- A new community science lab / classroom with a programme of community outreach and STEM investment
- Architectural enhancement to the centre, creating an ‘outward looking’ building that reactivates the surrounding public realm
Cambridge City Council Town Planners welcome the scheme as a “significant opportunity” to bring “strong benefits economically, socially and environmentally” to the Grafton Centre and the centre of Cambridge.
