Cambridge Science Park

A case study on the location of economic activity in a MEDC

Cambridge Science Park is an example of high-tech industry and is relatively footloose.

Background knowledge:

• Opened 1972 by Trinity College, Cambridge University
• There are over 100 tenants employing over 5000 people
• Over 50 hectares
• Examples of companies at the site are WorldPay, Napp, Jaygage.
• A majority of the companies are in bio-medical research, or computer/telecoms.

Location of Cambride Science Park:

• Close to M11
• High speed rail links close by, 1 Hour to London from Cambridge.
• Close to Stansted Airport

Attractions of Cambridge Science Park to Industries:

• Historic city of Cambridge
• Attractive, modern and spacious site
• Skilled and large workforce nearby - Cambridge University
• Lots of greenery and relaxing site, with lots of amenities - gym, nursery, restaurant etc
• Transport links
• Links to other hi-tech companies - agglomeration
• Cheap land

Disadvantages:

• House demand and prices soaring
• Congestion
• Taking over green land, more needed for expansion too
• Mainly graduate jobs