The University of Cambridge is consulting on proposals to submit a planning application for a single storey temporary modular building for the Molecular Imaging Chemistry Laboratory (MICL). The proposed building would be in the car park to the west of the Van Geest Building (VGB) which is on the Forvie site and part of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus (CBC).
The MICL is a key component of the University’s positron emission tomography (PET) function with facilities currently in the West Forvie building. However, this building is in poor condition, putting at risk its research capabilities. As such, temporary facilities are required until a long-term solution can be agreed upon as part of the University’s masterplan for the Forvie site.
The facility will include:
- A range of laboratory spaces and facilities including a cold chemistry, radio pharmacy and radiochemistry (metals) laboratories with workstations, and equipment including fume cupboards
- Offices, write-up space and a meeting room
The building is designed to be in operation for a period of 5 to 10 years and will be positioned on existing hardstanding, away from the boundary with residential properties. Although the construction of the building will result in the displacement of several existing car parking spaces, there will not be an increase in vehicle or pedestrian traffic, as the staff who would occupy the building, are currently based on the Forvie site and the accessible car parking spaces will be relocated. Additionally, no trees will be removed as part of this development.
The University has engaged with the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service to discuss the proposal ahead of submitting an application in April 2025. If successful, the work would be planned for Summer 2026.
Should you have any comments or questions, please contact Estate.Communications@admin.cam.ac.uk.