A new report has identified Stevenage as a key hub for life sciences activity.

The EMEA Life Sciences Cluster Outlook 2023, published by JLL research, identifies Stevenage as a renowned hub for life sciences and puts the town on a par with other established European clusters with world-leading specialisms.

The report classifies Stevenage as a “cluster specialist – with a unique research specialism driving the cluster. For example, with Stevenage’s specialism in cell and gene therapy”.

Stevenage has seen a huge amount of development in the life sciences recently.

The campus at Gunnels Wood Road hosts one of GlaxoSmithKline’s two main global research and development facilities, the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult Manufacturing Centre, and Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst.

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It has become a leading location in the UK for start-ups and established companies to develop and commercialise cutting edge therapeutics.

Last week, plans were submitted to Stevenage Borough Council for a brand new 33 acre life sciences campus. If approved, the development is expected to provide space for up to 5,000 highly-skilled new jobs.

Opposite the campus, Kadans Science Partner has invested £25m into Sycamore House to provide lab and office spaces, with an official launch date of 18 May.

Meanwhile, at Marshgate in the town centre, Autolus is establishing its HQ and advanced manufacturing facility, comprising 530,000 sq. ft of development, which will serve the USA, UK and European markets.