Gen Two Real Estate has appointed Bidwells and DTRE to lead the marketing and leasing strategy for the Alchemy Campus in Cambridge
Gen Two Real Estate, the family run life sciences developer and investor, has appointed Bidwells and DTRE to lead on the marketing & leasing strategy for the Alchemy Campus, a 125,000 sq ft life sciences hub in Fowlmere, South Cambridge. The scheme was granted permission by South Cambridgeshire District Council in January 2024.
Alchemy will provide 120,000 sq. ft of highly flexible space to provide a platform for more than 80% of the market, suitable for use by a diverse range of occupiers including biology, chemistry, GMP and pilot plant. Suites will range in size from 5,000 to 20,000 sq. ft and can be combined to create larger units of up to 60,000 sq. ft.
Enabling works have begun on site, with full construction due to commence in Q4 2024 with occupation from Q2 2026. Gen Two are committed to engaging with customers early, to design and build fit for purpose lab space that allows efficient work flows and ultimately aids company success.
To maximise the sustainability credentials of the development two of the existing structures will be reused to minimise embodied carbon impact, and the site will target BREEAM Excellent upon completion.
Occupiers will benefit from a dedicated shuttle bus providing lifts to and from local train stations, as well as a 5,500 sq. ft amenity block consisting of a café-deli, co working space, a gym, end of journey facilities and conference room.
Max Bryan, Head of Laboratory & Office Agency at Bidwells, said: “Alchemy is an exciting rejuvenation of former industrial spaces to deliver a high-quality environment and mix of spaces that will meet Science and Tech occupiers needs in the heart of the South Cambridge cluster. The approved masterplan which includes both back to frame redevelopment and new build is a sustainable approach and will bring high quality design quickly to market with planned for amenity and connectivity of the site from day 1.”
Jamie Green, Partner at DTRE, said: “Following the success of their Lion Works building in Whittlesford, Gen Two’s new scheme Alchemy is an excellent example of how a transformative mindset can produce high quality property solutions for the Science and Technology sector. Alchemy will allow businesses to focus on science without the headache of finding a suitable building. Cambridge continues to attract investment into a world-leading innovation ecosystem, and this development is sure to be an integral part of that moving forward.”
Daniel Sterling, Co-founder of Gen Two, said: “The launch of Alchemy Campus represents Gen Two’s commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and scientific advancement within the vibrant Cambridge ecosystem. The development will provide rarely available science and innovation floorspace which is truly adaptable to the occupier’s bespoke requirements. The innovative buildings will be able to accommodate not only the more traditional laboratory occupiers but also GMP & pilot production, all of which will be supported by substantial power availability. Situated within a strategic location Alchemy promises to be a catalyst for transformative discoveries and impactful solutions that will shape the future of healthcare and biotechnology. We look forward to supporting pioneers on their exciting journey as they pave the way for the next era of scientific excellence”.
