Procter & Gamble R&D facility to be built in Reading

Graham Construction has been appointed by Procter & Gamble to carry out the multimillion pound design and build of the Innovation Centre in Reading, Berkshire, which will comprise research and development offices and laboratories for its staff.

Set within an industrial area to the south of Reading city centre, the site has been used for industrial purposes since the mid-1900s.

Working with The Fairhursts Design Group, Graham will demolish the south-western wing of an existing building to make way for a new two-storey building comprising offices and laboratories.

The new and existing buildings will be linked by a glazed atrium which will provide views over the newly landscaped green spaces and a prominent entrance for staff and visitors.

Tim Brown, Procter & Gamble’s Associate Director for R&D said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Graham on our new Health Care Research Centre in Reading.

“The company has a strong track record in innovation in design and construction and was the winner of the UK Building Award for Major Contractor in 2017.”

Rob Joyce, Graham’s London office Director, said: “This new development will provide state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities to support the needs of Procter & Gamble’s workforce. Our aim is to create a modern, fit for purpose facility that is sympathetic to the site’s history while encouraging innovation.”

Works are expected to complete end of 2019.