In a significant step forward for the UK’s aspirations to be a ‘science superpower’, specialist investor, developer and operator for the science and innovation sector Mission Street and BGO, a leading global real estate investment manager, recently received planning consent to deliver a world-class 23-acre urban science district in central Cambridge, “District East”
The Proposal
District East, which is one of the largest new urban science developments in the UK, will facilitate a variety of research and development uses, catering to companies throughout their growth journey, from start-up to large multinational, within a single location. Innovative companies that have previously been forced to relocate or fragment their businesses will have the space to scale within the ecosystem, with the advantage of being part of a major science and technology cluster in a central location.
Totalling 1,000,000 sq. ft of GIA across 7 buildings, the scheme’s design has been led by master planners Hawkins Brown in collaboration with other leading design practices. Anchored by a central square, the fully pedestrianised masterplan – open to the public – will create a destination for all ages, including units suitable for local businesses, fitness infrastructure, a threefold increase of play space for children, a diverse food and beverage offering and community events space.
Our Approach
We were pleased to assist the client in achieving this planning consent, with our Eastern Transport Planning team working collaboratively with the wider project team and external stakeholders to deliver this important scheme.
The work undertaken by the Paul Basham Associates team involved extensive engagement with the local authorities and other stakeholders to achieve a scheme which prioritises sustainable travel and limits impact on the wider road network. Using Vision-Led principles the team developed a bespoke travel strategy for the site which integrated into wider plans for East Cambridge and the Cherry Hinton community.
The Outcome
We were pleased to see the scheme approved in January 2025, which follows on from our previous success with Mission Street at The Press, in Foxton. We look forward to continuing our work on District East and seeing the scheme come to life.