Next Generation Infrastructure Project
- Location
- Norwich, UK
- Client
- John Innes Centre
- Expertise
- Acoustics
- Architecture
- Design Management
- Interior Design
- Landscape Architecture
- Lighting
- Sustainability
- Size
- 40,000 sq m
- Cost
- £390m
The Next Generation Infrastructure project at the John Innes Centre (JIC) and The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) is set to create the largest net zero carbon laboratory in the UK.
Based at Norwich Research Park, this state-of-the-art facility will bring together scientists from diverse disciplines such as chemistry, biology, physics, and ecology, working collaboratively to deepen our understanding of plant and microbial phenotypes. By integrating wet and dry science activities, the project will drive progress in plant genetics, aiding the development of disease-resistant crops and new antibiotics.
The proposed design will transform the Norwich Research Park, creating a new public space in the heart of the Park which improves connectivity with neighbouring academic and industry partners which form a unique cluster of world class research institutions.
The approach to site was developed around ‘Linking Gardens’, focusing on enhancing the local ecology and linking people through external and internal spaces, both are fundamental to the ethos of JIC and TSL, and its work.
Our design features a combination of research and office spaces alongside modern horticulture facilities and glasshouses, all connected by a central public outreach gallery. These spaces will cater to the expanding staff and specialized needs of JIC and TSL.
“This is a major step forward in realizing our vision to improve collaborative working across the UK and overseas, helping us to provide a safer, healthier and more sustainable future through the power of plant and microbial science. As well as new laboratories, the design includes a redevelopment of our plant growth facilities, which in conjunction with our existing field station, will improve our ability to study the effects of climate change.”
A key focus is on achieving net zero carbon in construction and operation, in advance of the UK government and UKRI Sustainability Strategy goals. The design meets the requirements of the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard and will be certified net zero. This vision was developed through close collaboration with JIC, TSL, and BBSRC.
To reduce carbon emissions, we’ve employed an optimized structural approach. A hybrid timber and concrete frame for the building, ensures a significant reduction in embodied carbon. The design also integrates low embodied carbon and energy-efficient approaches to lighting, heating and cooling and renewable energy generation from near-site solar power to deliver zero-carbon energy for the building.
Together with JIC & TSL, we’ve created a blueprint for a cutting-edge research space that combines the power of big data, AI, and computer modeling with practical lab work. The facility will include advanced resources for genetic manipulation, bioanalysis, and microscopy, supporting ground breaking scientific work.
In addition to enhancing research capabilities, the design prioritizes biosecurity, safety, and operational efficiency. A flexible laboratory layout will enable interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing, with the capacity to adapt to the changing needs of research teams.
By creating ‘neighborhoods’ the design ensures that aligned research groups can be clustered while also enabling interdisciplinary collaboration. Social areas and meeting spaces are at the heart of the building, promoting informal meetings to cross-pollinate ideas.
The facility will also provide opportunities for external commercial collaboration, expanding its impact. The Next Generation Infrastructure project represents both scientific innovation and environmental responsibility, setting a benchmark for future research facilities.
Through this purpose-built space, BDP is helping JIC and TSL maintain their leadership in plant and microbial science, while contributing to future innovations in human health and sustainable agriculture.
upfront embodied carbon
operational energy
annual energy usage
PV array annual generation
carbon saved
“This represents a real opportunity to establish a world-leading global interdisciplinary hub for plant and microbial sciences that will help deliver the bio-based solutions needed to address global challenges around sustainable agriculture, food, nutrition and health.”
offsite generation of electricity
the largest net zero carbon laboratory in the UK
reduction in operational carbon
“We have been working with JIC/TSL from the germination of the project to define and review options for the buildings that demonstrates collaborative working, scientific impact and innovation, public engagement, education, training, and efficiency. Our design and engineering team is bringing increased focus on reducing embodied and operational carbon emissions, creating environments needed for ground-breaking scientific endeavor while also meeting the technical requirements of JIC and TSL’s teams.”
