Chesterford Chesterford Research Park

Project Overview
The Sidney Sussex Building comprises the construction of a 55,855 sq ft laboratory and office facility at Chesterford Research Park, Cambridge. Set within a landscaped research campus extending over 250 acres, the building is designed to deliver ten fully fitted laboratory suites across three floors, with suite sizes ranging from approximately 2,200 to 8,409 sq ft. The development provides high-quality, flexible accommodation to support a range of life sciences occupiers, contributing to the park’s long-term growth strategy and specialist research infrastructure.

Project Requirements
The client required a high-specification laboratory and office building capable of accommodating multiple life sciences tenants with varying technical and spatial requirements. Flexibility was a key driver, with each suite needing independent plant provision and the ability to support modular laboratory configurations. The scheme also required strong sustainability performance, integration with the wider research park infrastructure, and the delivery of specialist laboratory environments within a defined programme.

Glencar’s Role
Glencar is delivering the project under a Design & Build appointment, with responsibility for coordinating the design development and construction of the laboratory and office facility through to completion.

Scope of Works
Enabling Works / Civils & Infrastructure
- Site preparation within an operational research park
- New HV substation and utilities infrastructure
- Waste facilities, overflow car parking and EV charging provision

Building / Superstructure
- Reinforced concrete frame construction
- High-specification building envelope incorporating rainscreen cladding, curtain walling and structural glazing
- Three-storey laboratory and office structure

Fit-Out & Building Services
- Fully fitted laboratory suites with write-up areas
- Vinyl laboratory flooring and specialist internal finishes
- High-performance HVAC systems and fume hoods
- Dedicated plant rooms serving individual laboratory suites

External Works & Landscaping
- Ecological enhancements and biodiversity features
- Photovoltaic panels integrated into the development
- External hard and soft landscaping works

Technical & Delivery Challenges
Delivering a multi-tenant laboratory building within an operational research park presents complex technical and coordination challenges. The project requires careful integration of specialist laboratory services, including high-performance HVAC and independent plant systems, while maintaining flexibility for future occupiers. Managing construction activities alongside existing park operations, utilities infrastructure and sustainability requirements demands detailed planning, sequencing and close collaboration with the design team and stakeholders.

Delivery Conditions Addressed
- Live research park environment
- Specialist laboratory construction
- Multi-tenant building configuration
- High-performance MEP integration
- Sustainability-led design requirements
- Long programme duration

Sustainability & ESG
The Sidney Sussex Building is targeting BREEAM Excellent and has been developed with a strong focus on low-carbon construction and operational efficiency. Sustainability measures include photovoltaic panels, biodiversity enhancements, EV charging infrastructure and an embodied carbon cap. The scheme supports a fossil fuel-free strategy aligned with the wider sustainability objectives of Chesterford Research Park.

The Outcome
On completion, the Sidney Sussex Building will provide flexible, high-quality laboratory and office accommodation tailored to the operational needs of life sciences occupiers. The development will support the continued growth of Chesterford Research Park as a leading location for scientific research, delivering specialist infrastructure designed for long-term adaptability and performance.