Plans approved for 105,000 sq ft Ascot campus

Plans have been approved for the development of a landmark 105,000 sq ft life sciences centre adjacent to Imperial College London’s Ascot campus.The consent from the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead is for the repurposing and redevelopment of Silwood Science Park near Buckhurst Road.Designed by Sheppard Robson and brought forward by Newcore Capital Management, the project includes the demolition of the existing business centre and construction of a 56,000 sq ft life science centre.Also lined up is the refurbishment and retrofitting of five existing laboratory buildings, totalling 48,000 sq ft, and a 2,000 sq ft café pavilion and landscaping.In line with Newcore’s commitment as a B Corporation to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency, the development has a number of sustainability features.Through passive design, energy efficiency measures and the implementation of low and zero carbon technologies, together with a carbon offset contribution, the development will achieve a 100 per cent site-wide reduction in carbon emissions once built.The consent is supported by Imperial College London, with the development considered “integral” to its growth plans at Silwood Park.Silwood Science Park is an asset in Newcore’s £150m value-add fund, Newcore Strategic Situations IV LP.Newcore was advised by Savills in the planning process and by Hoare Lea, Gardiner & Theobald and Ramboll.