Cambridge Science Park Plans 20,000 Jobs in Major Expansion

Cambridge Science Park, the birthplace of Bluetooth technology and lifesaving cancer drugs, is getting a massive upgrade that could redefine how science parks serve their communities.

Trinity College Cambridge has submitted plans to redevelop the 56-year-old site on Milton Road, tripling its economic output to £3 billion annually. The expansion would grow the park from 2.8 million to 8 million square feet of workspace, housing thousands more researchers, engineers, and support staff.

The project stands out for one key reason: it's designed for everyone, not just scientists. Dame Sally Davies, Master of Trinity College Cambridge, emphasized that "opening up the new Park of Science to the young people and families of Cambridge and the towns and villages around" is central to the vision.

Currently, more than 7,000 people work at the park developing breakthrough technologies and medicines. The expansion would add 20,000 jobs spanning construction, gardening, human resources, and scientific research, injecting new opportunities across skill levels into the local economy.

The Ripple Effect

The redevelopment goes beyond lab space. Plans include improved bus links and cycling routes, making the site more accessible to surrounding communities in Cambridge, Peterborough, and nearby villages.

Green spaces will remain a priority despite the growth, with biodiverse landscaping and flood resilience measures built into the design. Public areas will feature outdoor science exhibits and an open-air museum, transforming the park into an educational destination.

The Cambridge Science Centre, already located on site, has seen explosive growth since moving there. Rebecca Porter, the center's CEO, reported reaching over 30,000 people in 2025 alone, including nearly 1,400 pupils in dedicated outreach to Wisbech.

Porter highlighted what makes this location special: "We aren't just interpreting science at a distance; we are translating real-time innovation into accessible experiences for families and schools." Kids can learn about research happening just steps away from where scientists are actually doing it.

Roland Sinker, chair of innovation and growth at the University of Cambridge, called the plan "a strong vote of confidence in the UK as a science and technology leader." The project aims to ensure future breakthroughs happen on British soil while delivering tangible benefits to local communities.

The Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service will review the application, with the joint development management committee making the final decision. If approved, the park that helped launch the mobile phone chip revolution will enter its next chapter, proving innovation hubs can grow while staying rooted in their communities.