A state-of-the-art histopathology laboratory has now opened on the top floor of 1 Discovery Drive, one of Prologis’ developments at Cambridge Biomedical Campus.
Prologis was appointed by Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CUHT) to fit out the groundbreaking laboratory, marking a significant milestone for clinical excellence and providing a cutting-edge facility for diagnostic services and the delivery of clinical research and development.
The opening of the new facility marks a pivotal step for the advancement of medical diagnostics and, in the spirit of the Campus’s ethos of medical excellence and innovation, the work taking place there will vastly improve patient outcomes for a variety of serious health conditions through the microscopic examination of tissue.
A UK first
One aspect that made this space so well suited for CUHT was the flexibility it offered. We worked collaboratively to transform the base facility into a fully operational laboratory with state-of-the-art diagnostic kit by delivering a highly technical fit-out, including the installation of an automated formalin distribution and recovery system - the first of its kind in the UK. Working with CUHT and specialist partners, plus an informed technical visit to Denmark to observe a live system, an enclosed and automated distribution solution for formalin was developed that significantly improves laboratory safety and efficiency.
A fully flexible space
Additional features such as the spare riser capacity for increased storage, adaptable ventilation and resilient base infrastructure enabled the integration of complex laboratory systems within the carefully considered base-build of 1 Discovery Drive, minimising the need for costly redesigns or programme delays.
Ample spaces for storage were also factored in, as well as charging for an electric courier vehicle, used to transport tissue samples between the hospital and the lab, promoting a smooth operational workflow.
The result is a modern, high-quality laboratory that will increase both speed and accuracy of tissue and cell processing, improving outcomes for patients across Cambridge and the wider region.
Speaking about the project, Emily Bliss from our Capital Deployment team, said: “It’s fantastic to welcome the Cambridge University Hospital histopathology team to their new home on Campus and provide them with a high-spec facility that will enable them to work even more effectively on clinical diagnostics. The successful completion of the new lab truly reflects the collaborative character of the Campus, proving how private sector investment, combined with technical expert delivery, can play a meaningful role in expanding NHS capacity and improving health outcomes both locally and regionally.”
The opening of the histopathology lab highlights Prologis’ ongoing commitment to life sciences, and support to the NHS with leading, UK-first facilities that deliver clinical innovation.
