British Heritage
Remember, Cherish, Learn.
beta
Cambridge Science Park - The Original UK Science Park
A Pioneering Jewel of British Heritage.
Founded in 1970 by Trinity College, the Cambridge Science Park stands as a pioneering testament to the United Kingdom's commitment to science and technological innovation. Not only is it the oldest science park in the country, but it also holds a significant place in British heritage, encapsulating the nation's rich history and forward-thinking spirit. The park’s vast contribution to British heritage extends beyond its status as a hub of innovation and scientific discovery, demonstrating the potential of a successful partnership between academia and industry.
The Cambridge Science Park is located approximately 3 kilometres north of Cambridge city centre, nestled within the parish of Milton, a region which shares its borders with Cambridge itself. The park's strategic location next to junction 33 of the A14 allows for easy access to and from the park. The public can reach the park via the Cambridge North railway station and the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway, demonstrating the area's integration with the surrounding transport infrastructure. Its prime location next to the St John's Innovation Centre and Cambridge Business Park further accentuates its integral role within the local business and technology community.
The history of the land upon which the park resides is as rich as the research it now hosts. Originally bestowed upon Trinity College at its founding by Henry VIII in 1546, the land served primarily for farming for centuries. During the Second World War, it was requisitioned by the US Army and repurposed for the preparation of vehicles and tanks for D-Day. Following the war, the land was left derelict, a quiet reminder of its historical significance.
In 1970, the science park emerged from the suggestion of Tony Cornell and under the supervision of Sir John Bradfield. The college partnered with Sir Francis Pemberton of Bidwells to breathe new life into the vacant plot, transforming it into a bustling centre for scientific enterprise and innovation. In 2017, acknowledging the park's rapidly expanding influence, its first director was appointed, and a substantial investment was announced to enhance facilities and reduce traffic congestion, reinforcing its significance in the UK's science and technology sector.
The Cambridge Science Park is home to a diverse range of companies that span various sectors, from bio-medical to computer/telecoms and industrial technology. Bio-medical firms include world-renowned names such as AstraZeneca, Bayer, and the Royal Society of Chemistry. In the computer/telecoms sector, the park hosts internationally recognised businesses like Broadcom, Huawei, and Citrix Systems. Industrial technology firms such as Philips, Roku Inc., and Johnson Matthey also have a prominent presence in the park.
The spirit of the Cambridge Science Park extends beyond technological innovation and business growth. Since 1989, the Cambridge Fun Run has become an annual tradition every November, symbolising the park's commitment to charity and community. The race, organised by and primarily involving employees of businesses based in and around the Science Park, raises funds for Children in Need. Participants, often dressed in creative costumes, run individually or in teams along the park's 1.8-kilometre ring road. The race culminates with an award ceremony in front of the Cambridge Consultants building, celebrating not only the fastest runners but also the best costumes.
The Cambridge Science Park is, without a doubt, a landmark of the United Kingdom's scientific heritage and a testament to its dedication to promoting innovation and technological progress. The park's enduring legacy and its continued contribution to British heritage are symbolic of the nation's commitment to academic excellence, scientific discovery, and fostering collaboration between the academic and industrial worlds.
Geographic Orientation and Accessibility
The Cambridge Science Park is located approximately 3 kilometres north of Cambridge city centre, nestled within the parish of Milton, a region which shares its borders with Cambridge itself. The park's strategic location next to junction 33 of the A14 allows for easy access to and from the park. The public can reach the park via the Cambridge North railway station and the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway, demonstrating the area's integration with the surrounding transport infrastructure. Its prime location next to the St John's Innovation Centre and Cambridge Business Park further accentuates its integral role within the local business and technology community.
Historical Evolution
The history of the land upon which the park resides is as rich as the research it now hosts. Originally bestowed upon Trinity College at its founding by Henry VIII in 1546, the land served primarily for farming for centuries. During the Second World War, it was requisitioned by the US Army and repurposed for the preparation of vehicles and tanks for D-Day. Following the war, the land was left derelict, a quiet reminder of its historical significance.
In 1970, the science park emerged from the suggestion of Tony Cornell and under the supervision of Sir John Bradfield. The college partnered with Sir Francis Pemberton of Bidwells to breathe new life into the vacant plot, transforming it into a bustling centre for scientific enterprise and innovation. In 2017, acknowledging the park's rapidly expanding influence, its first director was appointed, and a substantial investment was announced to enhance facilities and reduce traffic congestion, reinforcing its significance in the UK's science and technology sector.
Prominent Occupants
The Cambridge Science Park is home to a diverse range of companies that span various sectors, from bio-medical to computer/telecoms and industrial technology. Bio-medical firms include world-renowned names such as AstraZeneca, Bayer, and the Royal Society of Chemistry. In the computer/telecoms sector, the park hosts internationally recognised businesses like Broadcom, Huawei, and Citrix Systems. Industrial technology firms such as Philips, Roku Inc., and Johnson Matthey also have a prominent presence in the park.
Cambridge Fun Run: Tradition and Community Engagement
The spirit of the Cambridge Science Park extends beyond technological innovation and business growth. Since 1989, the Cambridge Fun Run has become an annual tradition every November, symbolising the park's commitment to charity and community. The race, organised by and primarily involving employees of businesses based in and around the Science Park, raises funds for Children in Need. Participants, often dressed in creative costumes, run individually or in teams along the park's 1.8-kilometre ring road. The race culminates with an award ceremony in front of the Cambridge Consultants building, celebrating not only the fastest runners but also the best costumes.
The Cambridge Science Park is, without a doubt, a landmark of the United Kingdom's scientific heritage and a testament to its dedication to promoting innovation and technological progress. The park's enduring legacy and its continued contribution to British heritage are symbolic of the nation's commitment to academic excellence, scientific discovery, and fostering collaboration between the academic and industrial worlds.
- Cambridge Science Parken.wikipedia.org
