ABSTRACT COMMITS TO SPECULATIVE OFFICES IN CAMBRIDGE

Mark Glatman's Abstract Securities has announced that its wholly owned subsidiary - Abstract (Cambridge) Limited – has exchanged contracts to acquire a 9.17 acres (3.71Ha) site at Fulbourn Road Cambridge, with Cambridge College, Peterhouse, from the Wright’s Clock Land Charity. Abstract propose to speculatively build around 300,000 sq ft of offices with car parking, subject to detailed discussion with the local planning authority. 

Following on from several successful speculative office schemes across the UK over the last 7 years, this project represents a major investment by Abstract in the Cambridge office market where supply constraints, coupled with demand, especially from life sciences, biotechnology and other more traditional office users, remains high. 

Abstract have been granted a long leasehold interest by Peterhouse who will retain the freehold ownership of the land.

The site, currently comprising open farmland zoned for business use, is adjacent to Peterhouse Technology Park, also owned by Peterhouse, which is the location of the global headquarters of ARM plc. The land lies south east of the city centre, around 2.5 miles from the railway station and gives easy access to the M11 and A14.

Abstract have retained Scott Brownrigg to design their proposals for the site which will provide a range of grade A office buildings capable of being occupied by a variety of users for multi or single occupation, but particularly focused on the technology, science and knowledge based sectors.  As with all Abstract schemes, a highly sustainable and environment focused approach will be adopted, while providing flexible space suitable for a range of end user needs, particularly important given the diverse range of target occupiers in the Cambridge market.

Mark Glatman, Chief Executive of Abstract Securities, said: “We are really excited to be developing in Cambridge. This is a location which we have followed closely for many years and, against a backdrop of so much uncertainty in the world today, we have no hesitation in committing to speculatively build here at the current time. Our blend of occupier focused skills, and tried and tested delivery platform, means that we can quickly deliver first class space into a unique market and befitting its highly skilled workforce. We believe Cambridge will be a key engine room to growth as our economy recovers over the coming years.

We are delighted to have worked on the purchase with Peterhouse, the oldest College in Cambridge, founded in 1284, and we will be maintaining a close relationship throughout the development process in order to realise our aligned ambitions for the land.’’

Bidwells represented Abstract and Peterhouse in the acquisition. Cheffins represented the vendor.  Abstract were advised by Pinsent Masons and Peterhouse by Mills and Reeve.

For information about the proposed development please contact:

Mark Glatman (mark.glatman@abstractsecurities.com) or

Christopher McPherson (christopher.mcpherson@abstractsecurities.com )

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