Amgen, the largest specialist biotech firm in the world, is looking for 18,580 sq m (200,000 sq ft) for an office and research facility within 20 miles of Cambridge.
It currently has its UK base on the Cambridge Science Park, where it occupies 3,716 sq m(40,000 sq ft), and is looking to occupy an initial 11,148 sq m (120,000 sq ft) with an option on 7,432 sq m (80,000 sq ft) of expansion space.
Amgen spends a quarter of its $2.7bn turnover on R&D.
Biotech is one of the fastest-growing industries and Cambridge agents estimate that more than 40 similar firms have ongoing requirements in the area.
Healey & Baker is believed to have beaten Jones Lang LaSalle to act on the requirement but would not comment.
The tight local market means that Amgen has only two options: MEPC’s Granta Park, to the south of Cambridge, and Development Securities and Wrenbridge’s Cambourne Business Park, to the west.
Tim Holmes of Wrenbridge said: “Cambourne has consent for 69,675 sq m (750,000 sq ft) and could easily accommodate Amgen and allow it room to grow.”
Cambourne Business Park was officially launched last week and the developers are speculatively building 9,290m2 (100,000 sq ft) in three buildings. It is believed that two companies are rivals to take the first 2,824 sq m (30,398 sq ft) building.
Housebuilders Bovis, Bryant and Alfred McAlpine have already begun the first of 3,300 houses alongside the business park. It is believed that Cambridge-based biotech firms have expressed interest in block-buying properties for their employees.
EGi News 28/05/99
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