Final commercial R&D building in Phase 2 expansion has gained Planning Committee approval delivering high-quality life science and office space

Planning Committee approval has been gained for 4000 Discovery Drive, the final commercial research and development building within the Phase 2 expansion of Cambridge Biomedical Campus (CBC).

The six-storey building will provide 9610 sq m of high-quality, flexible laboratory and office space, further strengthening Cambridge Biomedical Campus's position as a leading destination for life sciences innovation and research.

Designed to meet the evolving needs of occupiers, 4000 Discovery Drive will offer flexible floorplates capable of accommodating up to two tenants per floor, with space configured as approximately 60% laboratory and 40% office accommodation. Ground-floor end-of-journey facilities will support sustainable travel and enhance the experience for building users.

The building has been carefully designed to complement its neighbouring commercial developments, 1000 Discovery Drive (completed 2022), 2000 Discovery Drive (completing September 2026) and 3000 Discovery Drive (planning permission in place), while creating a strong and distinctive presence at the eastern edge of the current campus. Acting as both a gateway and landmark building, it will provide a prominent visual marker for visitors arriving at the campus.

Sustainability has been a key driver throughout the design process. The project is targeting BREEAM Outstanding and has been developed as a low embodied carbon scheme, drawing on the Cambridge stone vernacular and tracking performance against the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard (UK NZCBS). In recognition of the area's water-stressed environment, the design incorporates a comprehensive sustainable drainage strategy, including rainwater harvesting, grey water reuse and SuDS features.

The development will also benefit from the new Cycle Park currently under construction, reinforcing the campus's commitment to active and sustainable travel.

Architecturally, 4000 Discovery Drive takes a contemporary approach to a refined and ordered tripartite division of classical facades through geometry, rhythm and subtly varied texture and tone. Responding to the established masterplan while looking ahead to future connections with Babraham and the planned Phase 3 and Phase 4 expansions of Cambridge Biomedical Campus, the building has been conceived to present equally strong elevations on all sides.

The building’s solid stone façade has been carefully engineered to reduce solar gain, while its western elevation is articulated with deep vertical fins that overlook the southern courtyard. This courtyard forms the heart of the development, with landscaping sitting above the covered 450-space cycle park, creating a striking focal point for the scheme. The surrounding landscape has been thoughtfully designed to foster interaction and collaboration, establishing what the design team refers to as “corridors of conversation” that animate and connect the public realm.

GSK has been announced as the future occupier of 2000, 3000 and 4000 Discovery Drive at Cambridge Biomedical Campus, where it will establish a new 300,000 sq ft global research and development centre.