Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pulse Consult is working in close partnership with the University of Warwick Science Park to refurbish the Vanguard Centre. The project involves a comprehensive upgrade of the 1970s building to create high-specification facilities designed to support the burgeoning life sciences sector and foster regional innovation.

The £6m scheme, delivered under a direct award, will provide approximately 13,600 sq ft of premium laboratory space alongside 8,000 sq ft of office accommodation. The building's ground floor is being converted into 13 individual research and development laboratories, which have been designed with the flexibility to be interconnected as tenants grow.

On the first floor, the facility will feature eight offices, modern meeting rooms, and collaborative workspaces. A dedicated social and events area will also be included, providing university research partners and commercial businesses with a professional environment for pioneering work.

Jason Fretter, director at Pulse Consult, said: "We recognise the vital role that well-designed, functional facilities play in driving innovation and research. That's why we are particularly pleased to have been appointed to deliver this project, building on our strong existing relationship with the University of Warwick and supporting the successful refurbishment of the Vanguard Centre.

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"By creating premium accessible R&D laboratories and flexible office spaces tailored to the evolving needs of researchers and commercial partners, we hope this project will not only enhance the campus but also attract top talent and pioneering activity to the region. We are excited to collaborate with the University of Warwick Science Park to bring this innovative space to life and support the cutting-edge research that will shape the future."

Sustainability is a key focus of the refurbishment, with the building set to achieve an improved EPC rating. Improvements include the installation of new windows, enhanced insulation for external walls, and the use of CLT timber for infill panels on both floors. The facility will utilise electric heating, with provisions made for the future installation of PV panels.

Emma Turner, business development manager at the University of Warwick Science Park, said: "The transformation of the Vanguard Centre will put the Science Park at the forefront of conversations across the industry with incoming companies benefiting from high-quality, flexible working spaces, collaborative and co-working opportunities and benefiting from links with a top-ranked university.

"Availability of lab space within the region is a challenge for many businesses needing to find suitable premises and is at a significant premium due to lack of supply in areas of high demand. The Vanguard Centre will relieve some of this pressure, and the space will be priced competitively without compromising on quality. We're confident the Vanguard Centre would make the perfect base for companies in need of modern R&D space with competitive pricing and attention to detail being given at every stage of this project."

Pulse Consult is providing a suite of services for the project, including project management, quantity surveying, and employer's agent roles. Construction work is currently underway, with completion scheduled for Autumn 2026.