Construction of Europe’s tallest purpose-built commercial lab building has begun in Canary Wharf.
Due for completion in 2027, the 823,000 sq ft tower, One North Quay, is one of the biggest developments to start in London this year.
The 23-storey building, which aims to become a “world-leading centre for health and life sciences,” is set to house businesses including those in biotechnology, genomics and medical tech. It will also host a rooftop terrace with a bar and restaurant.
Canary Wharf Group (CWG) and Kadans Science Partner (Kadans) were given the green light from Tower Hamlets Council for the development in July 2023.
Shobi Khan, CEO of CWG, said: “One North Quay is a significant addition to the life sciences, health, and tech community at Canary Wharf, delivering fit for purpose, flexible lab space in London that offers a broad range of state-of-the-art facilities and offerings to support an ecosystem of companies ranging from multi nationals to start-ups, as well as educational establishments.
“The vertical campus will set a new precedent in terms of scale, technology, and sustainability, and forms part of Canary Wharf’s ongoing 3.0 strategy in creating a vibrant urban mixed use community which has 16.5 acres of green spaces and waterside living, over 350 shops, restaurants and bars as well as a growing leisure and amenities offering and a year-round events calendar.”
A breaking ground ceremony was held on Tuesday.
Architects KPF designed One North Quay as a 23-storey ‘vertical science campus’ which can support technological advancements across sub-sectors.
Under the leadership of Khan, the property giant is becoming less reliant on offices, and has been growing its residential division with plans for more homes.
Meanwhile, new stores and restaurants are being added to the estate.
