Scarborough Group International has expanded its life sciences portfolio across Yorkshire with the acquisition of the Old Medical School in Leeds.
Since being selected as the preferred bidder for the property by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust in May 2024, Scarborough Group International has been operating under an exclusivity agreement to develop its plans for the historic building’s ambitious redevelopment into a cutting-edge Health Tech Innovation Hub.
As a key component of the city’s new Innovation Village, the 75,000 sq ft building will be designed to support Health Tech innovation activity around Leeds Teaching Hospitals’ Innovation Pop Up, alongside start-ups, established industry players, academic institutions, government initiatives and community organisations.
Featuring co-working spaces, meeting rooms, event areas, offices and laboratories, the hub will be a catalyst for collaboration to advance scientific research into practical healthcare solutions, driving economic growth and improving patient care.
By integrating historic architecture with contemporary innovation, the hub will cultivate creativity, collaboration and technological advancements that will shape the future of healthcare within Leeds and the wider West Yorkshire region.
Simon McCabe, Scarborough Group International Chief Executive, said: “This is a pivotal moment for us at SGI as we deepen our commitment to the UK’s life sciences sector.
“We fully support the Government’s vision of building a world-leading healthcare and life sciences hub. The sector holds tremendous potential to not only boost economic growth but also improve health outcomes for thousands of people across the UK. We’re proud to be part of this transformative journey.”
Professor Phil Wood, Chief Executive at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “I’m delighted we’re moving forward with the redevelopment of the Old Medical School. This grand building will soon become a leading Health Tech Innovation Hub, something Leeds can be truly proud of.
“It’s a key part of the wider Innovation Village, which will revolutionize health and life sciences development while complementing the new state-of-the-art hospital at Leeds General Infirmary. This hub will drive innovation that will directly impact patient care for years to come.”
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, added: “As the home of NHS England and Europe’s largest teaching hospital, Leeds is already a global hub for health innovation. We’re ranked among the top five cities in the world for Health Tech firms.
“With our multi-million-pound Investment Zone, projects like the Old Medical School are pushing our region to the forefront of the global Health Tech sector. By bringing together universities, clinicians, businesses, and investors, we’ll drive life-changing technological advancements, grow our economy, and build a brighter future for West Yorkshire.”
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Deputy Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “The new hospital and Health Tech Innovation Hub are key elements of our £1.5 billion Innovation Arc and wider regional Investment Zone.
“These developments are essential to delivering innovation that leads to a healthier, greener, and more inclusive future for everyone. This progress reinforces Leeds as a leading Health Tech hub, benefiting both the city and patients, and it is a testament to the power of collaboration.”
Fox Lloyd Jones supported Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust throughout the marketing, developer selection, negotiation and disposal process for the Old Medical School.
