Expanding Next-Generation Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Capabilities
Autolus Therapeutics
Stevenage Manufacturing Facility
Autolus Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specialising in programmed T-Cell therapies, expanded its capabilities with a new 7,500m² facility in Stevenage. Designed with sustainability at its core, the facility achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating by incorporating net-zero carbon strategies. This was made possible through innovative technologies like heat source pumps, heat recovery systems, and the use of 75% offsite-manufactured content, reducing both carbon emissions and waste. The offsite modular construction method also shortened the overall construction timeline by 24 months.
To accelerate operational readiness, the facility’s handover was divided into three Practical Completion phases, allowing for early equipment installation and validation, starting five months before full building completion.
Key challenges included maintaining a fast-track programme with a tight budget, achieving near-zero carbon emissions, and integrating multiple tenant requirements into the design. However, these challenges were overcome by a strong collaboration between modular providers and stakeholders, an efficient design process, and clear communication channels between the client, contractors, and tenants.
The project exemplifies high-quality, sustainable development with fast-track execution and added value through expert project management, providing a blueprint for future biopharmaceutical expansions. Key lessons highlight the importance of early team integration and comprehensive operational readiness planning.
Stevenage Manufacturing Facility
Autolus Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specialising in programmed T-Cell therapies, expanded its capabilities with a new 7,500m² facility in Stevenage. Designed with sustainability at its core, the facility achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating by incorporating net-zero carbon strategies. This was made possible through innovative technologies like heat source pumps, heat recovery systems, and the use of 75% offsite-manufactured content, reducing both carbon emissions and waste. The offsite modular construction method also shortened the overall construction timeline by 24 months.
To accelerate operational readiness, the facility’s handover was divided into three Practical Completion phases, allowing for early equipment installation and validation, starting five months before full building completion.
Key challenges included maintaining a fast-track programme with a tight budget, achieving near-zero carbon emissions, and integrating multiple tenant requirements into the design. However, these challenges were overcome by a strong collaboration between modular providers and stakeholders, an efficient design process, and clear communication channels between the client, contractors, and tenants.
The project exemplifies high-quality, sustainable development with fast-track execution and added value through expert project management, providing a blueprint for future biopharmaceutical expansions. Key lessons highlight the importance of early team integration and comprehensive operational readiness planning.