Wellcome Genome Campus appoints Winvic Construction Ltd to deliver two pedestrian bridges across A1301 to connect growing site

Wellcome Genome Campus has appointed Winvic Construction Ltd to deliver two landmark pedestrian bridges across the A1301, creating a vital connection as the world-leading Campus undergoes a major expansion.

Over the next decade, the Campus will triple in size, increasing from 125 acres to 440 acres, making space for around 250 businesses and more than 9,000 people.

The two new bridges are being delivered as part of the first phase of expansion, set to be complete in 2028. This phase also includes new laboratories and office space, incubator and accelerator facilities, 84 homes, a state-of-the-art Nuffield Health and Fitness Club, an Energy Farm and other infrastructure.

Integral to the vision for the growing Campus, the pedestrian bridges will provide a crucial connection for everyone who lives, works and visits the site, reflecting its ambition to grow as one connected, accessible destination.

The bridges will have spans of 50 metres and 55 metres, together with approximately 175 metres of accessible ramped walkways, staircases, lift shafts, footpaths, landscaping, drainage and lighting. They have been designed to protect mature trees and create a distinctive addition to the landscape.

As both designer and principal contractor, Winvic will oversee the detailed design, construction and installation of the bridges and associated infrastructure. Construction began earlier this year, with the bridges set to be installed in early 2027 before opening for use in 2028.

Award-winning architect WilkinsonEyre designed the bridges with structural and civil engineers Evolve Consulting Engineers and landscape architect Churchman Thornhill Finch.

Robert Evans, Chief Executive of Wellcome Genome Campus, said: “These bridges are integral to and very visible symbols of, our expansion, bringing both sides of the Campus together into one unified, thriving community. As we continue to grow, it’s essential that our expanding campus feels like one connected destination.
“We are delighted to be working with Winvic on this important infrastructure. The bridges will become striking new landmarks for the Campus. We’re excited to see them take shape and to mark what will be a defining moment in the transformation of the place.”

Rob Cook, Managing Director for Civils and Infrastructure at Winvic, said: “We are proud to be delivering these iconic works at the Wellcome Genome Campus, which is an opportunity to contribute to a world-class environment that brings together leading research institutes, biotech businesses, conferencing and convening, attracting the very best talent in innovation.
“Wellcome Genome Campus has a rich heritage of scientific excellence and these bespoke bridges will add to this unique destination – and become landmarks in their own right.”