Proposed Newmarket R&D and laboratory building offers affordable option to Cambridge

A new three-storey research & development, office or laboratory facility at The Oaks Business Park in Newmarket could be set to strengthen the Suffolk town’s position as a more affordable alternative to Cambridge for life sciences, laboratory and medical businesses.

Named Vector, the 2,057 sq m building is being marketed by BTG Eddisons on behalf of the developers. The agent estimates that comparable quality facilities in Cambridge and its surrounding science parks could cost up to 50 per cent more to lease.

As a brand new building it can offer flexible floor space ranging from 685.5 sq m to 2,057 sq m, with accommodation suitable for laboratories, life sciences, medical/clinical functions and supporting office functions. It will also provide 66 on-site parking spaces.

The development reached an important milestone earlier this year, with all planning pre-commencement conditions discharged. An electrical substation has also been installed, providing a dedicated 277kVA electricity supply, meaning the developer is ready to commence construction.

Vector will complement the established occupier base at The Oaks Business Park, which includes GenesisCare’s Oncology Centre, located on the site for almost eight years. Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has also chosen Newmarket for certain functions, relocating some activities away from its main Cambridge hospital.

In addition to affordability, BTG Eddisons, the sole agent under instruction, is highlighting Newmarket’s transport connections as another key advantage of Vector.

Newmarket is approximately 20 minutes from Cambridge by road, with links to the A14 and A11, while regular rail services connect the two towns in just over 20 minutes.

Ben Green of BTG Eddisons believes rent levels, limited availability of modern premises and increasing congestion in Cambridge are factors that make the case for a Newmarket location.

Speaking about Vector, he said, “Available on both freehold and leasehold terms and with consent across the range of Class E uses which also include leisure & recreation and financial & professional services - among others - and in addition to health & medical and research, Vector is being positioned as an attractive option for organisations seeking high-quality specialist accommodation with improved affordability and accessibility while retaining the all-important CB, Cambridge postcode.”

For more information about Vector in Newmarket, contact Ben Green at BTG Eddisons, 07825 309599, [email protected].