Cancer Research UK – New Biological Research Facility

The Client identified the need for additional research laboratory space with associated support facilities in order to continue to enhance their research work on this site.

With the assistance of The Austin Company, discussions were held with the users to develop their needs into a detailed User Requirement Document which formed the catalyst for the new building.

Some of the main criteria being:

• To provide an economic and timely solution to respond to the client’s current needs – additional Research laboratories.
• To visually and conceptually draw on the design of the existing buildings on the site, comprising of brick faced external walls, projecting eaves and slate roofing materials echoing the pavilion or campus style of the existing buildings.
• To recognise the particular nature of the site, both within the clients boundary and beyond. The site is located within a visually highly sensitive area and close liaison with the local Planning Authority was essential in developing a solution that met all the key success criteria for the project.
• To provide a safe building for the users throughout its life time, not just for scientific staff, but for maintenance personnel and contractors.
• To be adaptable internally to meet future requirements and changes to the clients working practices.

The requirements of the Client and Statutory Authorities were met by the new two storey facility providing 3,576 of additional usable laboratory accommodation (excluding second floor plant space) giving a total gross floor area of 5,400 sqm.

• Provide the client with urgently required new laboratory and support facilities.
• Further enhance and maximise the potential of the existing site and new facility.
• Provide opportunities for much needed expansion, together with improved communication, functionality, productivity and efficiencies between the user groups around the existing site.
• Enhance working conditions for the laboratory spaces to support the research works being undertaken, both for now and the future.
• Provide the ability to adapt the building to meet future business needs.
• Develop good GLP practices within the user departments and throughout the building.
• Provide a modern and pleasing environment in which to accept Clients and visitors, and to best portray the services, facilities and opportunities that can be offered.