Construction Specialists New Build Homes, Redesigns, Extensions, Renovations, Conversions & Restorations in London & Essex
It’s frequently a positive step when refurbishment or redesign is used instead of total demolition, especially where a structure has remained unoccupied for some time. An unused site in Harlow is to experience just this form of transformation, and is destined to be the new home of Public Health England (PHE). This government organisation exists to improve and protect health and wellbeing across the UK, and aims to reduce inequalities in the nation’s health.
The vacant GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) site in Harlow was chosen from several options, as this is a state of-the-art science facility, and has laboratories and support facilities already in place. Some adaptations and modifications will be applied, and the site is large enough to accommodate services from two other PHE sites in other locations, as well as the headquarters currently based in London. The new site will enable the organisation to allow a significant increase in scientific research leading to greater growth of knowledge. This in turn will work to positively impact public health and wellbeing.
Harlow is an excellent location for the new site, due to it’s long standing links to the science community, it is also considered extremely fortunate that Harlow is placed in the London-Stansted-Cambridge life sciences corridor (LSCC). The area consists of 37 life sciences research institutes in the LSCC corridor and 1,400 life sciences businesses.
The town’s dedicated Enterprise Zone, has a specific focus on the life sciences sector, and good transport links via train and airport, make the area even more attractive. The science facility and headquarters will employ up to 2,750 staff in 2024 including scientists and technicians, following a phased opening from 2021.
Not only will the project provide work for the facility’s staff, but will create many jobs within the construction industry. As well as building, landscaping will be an integral part of the project, as the organisation seeks to preserve the existing woodlands etc, in addition to creating a landscaped public space and allotments for staff.
