VolkerFitzpatrick to deliver next phase of St John’s Innovation Park

St John’s College, University of Cambridge, has appointed VolkerFitzpatrick to lead the next phase of expansion at St John’s Innovation Park, a key R&D and technology hub in North Cambridge. The construction contract includes delivery of the Dirac Building, an 85,000 sq ft premium office development, along with an associated Transport Hub offering shared amenities for all park occupants.

The Dirac Building has been designed with sustainability and flexibility in mind, targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating. Construction is scheduled to begin in November 2025, with completion expected in the second quarter of 2027.

Located just outside Cambridge city centre, St John’s Innovation Park is home to a growing community of science and technology organisations, including PwC, Darktrace, Cambridge GaN Devices, and Cambrionix. The new development is part of a wider, ongoing investment strategy by St John’s College to support growth in the North Cambridge research cluster.

The Dirac Building will feature column-free floorplates, external terraces, and a double-height reception area. Environmental features include rooftop photovoltaic panels, a rainwater harvesting system, and a green roof on the adjacent Transport Hub designed to enhance biodiversity. The hub will also provide gym facilities and showers, accessible to all tenants across the park.

VolkerFitzpatrick, which recently completed Cambridge City Council's Operational Hub on Cowley Road, was appointed following a competitive tender process. “This development exemplifies our commitment to building sustainable, high-quality spaces that meet the needs of forward-looking businesses,” said Stuart Deverill, Managing Director of VolkerFitzpatrick’s Building Division.

Gardiner & Theobald is serving as project manager, with Sheppard Robson as architect. The project team also includes Ramboll (engineering), Hoare Lea (building services), Stace (cost management), Savills (planning and commercial advisory), and OFR (fire engineering).

Charles Thomas-Davies, Partner at Gardiner & Theobald, noted: “Following a robust tender process, we look forward to working with VolkerFitzpatrick and the wider team in supporting the continued evolution of St John’s Innovation Park as a destination offering modern, high-quality facilities for Cambridge’s occupier market.”

Suzie Wood, Head of Investment Property at St John’s College, added that the development is a “significant milestone” in the College’s long-term vision for the Park, aimed at delivering sustainable and forward-thinking workspaces.