The purpose-built Collaborative Technology Access Programme (cTAP) facility, created an industry-facing ‘front door’ to the departments of chemistry and physics at Lancaster University, offering SMEs access to cutting edge equipment, support for product and process innovation, as well as guidance throughout all stages of product design, scale up, and performance testing.

Architecturally, the building responds to the ubiquitous campus materials and forms, which establish the identity of the university’s building portfolio. This includes the use of buff brickwork, ribbon windows, exposed concrete frames, and flat roofs.

Spaces which can benefit from passive environmental control, such as natural ventilated and day lit offices, have been located to the perimeter of the building footprint this reduces the buildings ventilation and cooling loads.

Over its four levels – including a roof level plant room – the building provides laboratory and office accommodation for cTAP staff, partner companies, and technologists. The ground floor provides office and clerical accommodation, while the upper floors house laboratory and write-up accommodation.

The building has created an environment for faster and more effective product development, increased competitiveness, enhanced innovation and job creation.