The Grafton Centre is changing
2,204
jobs from entry level to PhD
Incubator space to support the growth of small and start-up companies
Long term improvements to retail at the Grafton Centre
+649%
biodiversity net gain
18,500 tonnes
carbon savings by repurposing the existing centre, compared to new buildings
50% reduction
in water consumption
1160 cycle parking spaces and new safe routes through and around the centre
New public spaces, creating a nicer place to visit, shop, work, and spend time
Retaining the cinema, at the heart of a new leisure quarter with a hotel and restaurants
£111.2 million
extra economic impact from the Grafton Centre
22
new street trees
Retaining the local gym at the centre
An exciting future for the Grafton Centre
The Grafton Centre has been declining over recent years because of changes to the way people shop.
Pioneer Group hope to save retail at the Grafton by creating a better shopping environment centered around a new public square, while converting much of the Grafton Centre into laboratory and event space – bringing more than two thousand science jobs, from PhD to apprentice-level.
Pioneer Group's mission is to help life sciences and high-tech businesses to thrive. We lead the way in integrating research and lab space with investment and mentoring programmes, and creating research ecosystems that help new companies grow.
Retail and leisure will be saved for the long term
An improved shopping environment will be created at the west end of the centre, by Burleigh and Fitzroy Streets. A public square with trees, seating, and an improved public space that will make it a more attractive place to visit, with shops offering value and convenience for local people.
The workers in the science centre will also contribute to keeping cafes and shops on Fitzroy and Burleigh Street secure and sustainable, as people come to the labs to work every weekday, increasing local footfall.
The cinema on East Road will also remain, along with the gym. Another new public square and improved streets on East Road surrounded by new restaurants and a hotel.
The Grafton Centre is changing, and has an exciting future ahead