Investment Attraction

The UK Biobank faced significant challenges in expanding its capabilities to support health research due to limitations in its existing laboratory space. The need for a state-of-the-art facility that could accommodate a growing number of biological samples and enhance the speed of sample delivery to researchers was critical. The solution was the development of Greenheys, a £60 million lab and innovation hub at Manchester Science Park, designed specifically to meet the needs of UK Biobank and other scientific businesses.

Greenheys will provide 131,000 square feet of flexible workspace, including specialized CL2 labs, which are essential for advanced biomedical research. The facility will feature cutting-edge technology, such as a latest-generation robotic freezer capable of storing and retrieving up to 20 million biological samples four times faster than current standards. This advancement is expected to dramatically increase the speed at which UK Biobank can supply samples to researchers, allowing for the storage of millions more samples as the organization expands. Additionally, the development prioritizes sustainability, aiming for net zero in construction and operation, which includes energy-efficient features like air source heat pumps and solar panels.

The project has already created 23 new employment opportunities and provided 340 apprentice weeks, alongside significant community engagement efforts. Bruntwood SciTech and Willmott Dixon have contributed over £5,600 to local initiatives and provided work experience placements for individuals in need. The collaboration with local charities aims to support the most deprived areas in England, ensuring that the community benefits from the development of this innovative hub. Overall, the Greenheys project not only addresses the specific needs of UK Biobank but also fosters local economic growth and community development.