Understand
Redevelopment of Cambridge's Grafton Centre into life science and tech hub
Overview
The first phase of the project to transform Cambridge's Grafton Centre is expected to be finished in 2029, with the eastern part of the shopping centre being converted into science and innovation space by Pioneer Group. The redevelopment aims to create up to 2,000 jobs and add £111m to the city economy.
Key points
- The first phase of the Grafton Centre redevelopment is expected to be completed in 2029, a year later than initially planned.
- Pioneer Group received planning permission to redevelop the shopping centre in 2024.
- Around 38,000 to 40,000 square feet will be used as an incubator for life science and tech start-ups.
- The project includes a new Premier Inn hotel on East Road and the demolition of Abbeygate House to make way for a new life sciences building.
- The redevelopment is projected to create up to 2,000 jobs and contribute an extra £111m to the city economy.