A new Edinburgh Innovation Hub has opened at the 52-acre Edinburgh Innovation Park, marking a significant addition to Scotland's research and industry ecosystem. The flagship facility is intended to support the growth of food and drink, life sciences and technology enterprises, providing flexible space for start-ups and established businesses to scale.

The building was delivered for a joint venture between Queen Margaret University (QMU) and East Lothian Council, with design led by Civic's Scotland-based structural and civil engineering team in collaboration with Oberlanders Architects, Currie & Brown, Heron and WSP. Funding came through the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal and East Lothian Council, and the Hub is the first major building completed within the wider Innovation Park masterplan. The facility opened its doors last month and has already welcomed its first tenant.

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The project places a strong emphasis on low-carbon innovation, sustainable construction and inclusive growth. Internally, a central atrium forms the collaborative heart of the building, incorporating a cafeteria, breakout spaces and meeting rooms. Two north–south wings provide laboratories alongside office accommodation suited to meetings, conferences and social events. The layout has been designed for long-term adaptability so spaces can evolve as research and enterprise needs change.

Civic's civil engineering and transport and movement specialists also developed strategies for site access, parking and drainage. This includes a comprehensive drainage solution aligned with sustainability goals, and a detailed car park layout prioritising accessibility and efficient traffic flow.

Isla Jackson, director and head of our Scotland & Ireland studio, said: "The opening of the Edinburgh Innovation Hub marks a major milestone in the delivery of the wider Innovation Park masterplan. Working collaboratively across the project team, we adopted a system-thinking approach to deliver a nationally significant hub for innovation-led business growth. The result is a resilient, flexible and highlight accessible building that actively encourages partnership between academia and industry.

"The development will play an important role not only in advancing innovation across key sectors, but also in strengthening Edinburgh's position as a destination for world-class talent and research. We're incredibly proud to have been part of bringing this landmark project to life."

The Hub's completion establishes a cornerstone for the Edinburgh Innovation Park, advancing the region's capacity to attract investment, talent and collaborations that can drive Scotland's net zero and economic ambitions.