Technology hub expands to meet rising demand

Sheffield Technology Parks (STP) has launched a shared lab facility, reacting to demand for high-quality laboratory space from science and technology start-ups, university spinouts, and companies relocating to Sheffield.

Next to the new labs, STP has also unveiled a dedicated shared office space, designed to support lab users with the additional facilities they need to grow their businesses.

The space is a direct response to the rising number of knowledge-led companies choosing Sheffield as their base.

The first company to benefit from the shared lab space is Deep Blue Biotech, a sustainable biotech firm which has relocated from the South East of England.

Tim Corcoran, co-founder and chief operations officer, said: “For an early-stage business, being in a communal lab is a far more economical way of doing things.

“It works well for us as we are only a small team and rarely have all members in at once, so we don’t need a huge space.

“Having the university on our doorstep is incredibly useful – we’ve had some great conversations, and they’re a fantastic resource to tap into. If we can commercialise the use of cyanobacteria in chemical production, it will be a big advantage to them as well.”

Tom Wolfenden, chief executive at Sheffield Technology Parks, added: “The launch of our shared lab and office spaces marks a significant milestone for Sheffield’s DeepTech sector.

“Sheffield Technology Parks remains the starting point for many early-stage companies, giving them the flexible, high-quality space they need to scale.

“Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation, and by creating an environment that encourages collaboration, we’re ensuring Sheffield remains a magnet for ambitious people, and the science and technology businesses they are starting.”