UBS Asset Management and Reef Group received approval to create one of Europe’s largest life science campus in Stevenage, Hertfordshire. The decision paves the way for the new life sciences hub alongside GSK’s existing Global R&D facility at Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst.

The project will deliver a world-class, connected life science campus bringing together companies from early stage through to commercialization and helping to meet the growing demand for GMP manufacturing and lab space in the UK. Construction is expected to start in late-2023 with completion for phase one targeted for 4Q25.

The 15-building campus will comprise a variety of different uses, including R&D labs and offices, GMP manufacturing facilities and flexible lab buildings, as well as training, innovation, and collaboration spaces.

The new campus will include GSK’s Global R&D facility, the cell, and gene Therapy Catapult (CGT Catapult), LifeArc, Cytiva and Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst (SBC), which is home to a growing number of early-stage life science companies.

Tony Wood, chief scientific officer, GSK said, “New lab space and facilities for the cutting-edge biotech companies of the future are in short supply, so we’re delighted to support the creation of a new life sciences campus at the heart of the Golden Triangle of London, Oxford, and Cambridge. Situated alongside one of our global R&D hubs, this is a really positive development for the sector and it’s great that we’re one step closer to work starting on the new Stevenage development.”