Duxford Av-Tech Aviation Innovation Campus

Written by Joe Dickeson Board Director

Jefferson Sheard Architects is proud to be collaborating with HBD on the Duxford AvTech Aviation Innovation Campus, a visionary £162 million development set to redefine the future of aerospace innovation.

HBD has been appointed as development partner by the landowners, Imperial War Museums and Gonville & Caius College (a constituent college of the University of Cambridge), to bring this pioneering project to life.

The scheme aspires to establish a market leading centre for businesses in the Advanced Air Mobility sector, uniquely positioned within the historic setting of Duxford Airfield. It aims to fuse cutting edge innovation with the site’s rich aviation heritage, creating a dynamic environment for technological advancement.

The masterplan proposes a diverse mix of building typologies, including spaces for office based R&D, production, manufacturing, and advanced testing. Each building will be designed with adaptability in mind, enabling the campus to respond to shifting market demands while supporting long term commercial success and stakeholder needs.

The project is targeting ambitious sustainability outcomes, including BREEAM Excellent and an EPC A+ rating. Beyond its environmental credentials, the development is expected to deliver significant economic benefits to the region by creating employment opportunities and attracting investment to support the growth of the UK’s aerospace innovation sector.

“We’re delighted to be part of this journey. It’s a rare opportunity to help shape something so ambitious, meaningful, and future-focused and we are excited to see the vison realised.”

Director, Joe Dickeson

Sector(s)

  • Office & Industrial Workplace
  • Higher Education

Value
162m

Client(s)
HBD

Size
25 acres / 435,000 sq ft

Location
Cambridgeshire

Design

Architectural excellence is at the heart of the scheme. The development seeks to set a new benchmark in design quality, delivering buildings that inspire creativity, reflect innovation, and meet the highest standards of functionality, operational efficiency, and sustainability.

The evolving design of the AvTech campus is being carefully shaped to respond sensitively to its Green Belt context. Particular attention is being given to key approach routes and wider landscape views, ensuring the development integrates seamlessly with its surroundings. The architectural and landscape strategy prioritises a high quality public realm, underpinned by a commitment to retaining and enhancing existing green infrastructure wherever possible.

The Team

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