BDP to design Aberdeen Innovation Hub

BDP has been appointed with an interdisciplinary design team for the Bio-therapeutics Hub for Innovation in Aberdeen, Scotland.

Located on the Foresterhill Health Campus in Aberdeen, one of Europe’s largest integrated clinical, research, teaching and commercial health sites, the £40m project is set to double the number of life sciences companies in North East Scotland and help the sector to collaborate, innovate and commercialise the next generation of therapies and healthcare solutions.

The 6,000 sqm new-build facility will include accommodation for spin-outs, start-ups and established companies along with collaboration space and shared facilities for events, small conferences and networking. Sector specific support programmes will include incubation, acceleration, mentoring, commercialisation and growth planning. The hub will also be a catalyst for international collaborations and investment into research and companies.

The project has been developed by the ONE Life Sciences sector board, University of Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University, NHS Grampian and Scottish Enterprise and the ONE team is leading its delivery.

Professor Stephen Logan, Chair of the ONE Life Sciences sector board, said: “This is an exciting project for the region and we are now beginning the formal planning approval process for the hub with the local authority. The hub will accelerate company creation and growth, anchor growing businesses and high-value jobs here long term and be a focal point for innovation and collaboration. This is a transformational project of national significance that supports the regional economic goal of diversification and will contribute to the national ambitions for life sciences as a driver for health and wealth.”

The project was formally launched to an audience of partners, life sciences companies and industry stakeholders in November 2018. The target is to have the first phase of the hub open in 2021.