Central Science Laboratory

Overview

The Central Science Laboratory (CSL), formerly part of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) and now integrated into DEFRA, specialises in agricultural science, environmental management, and food safety. To consolidate research previously undertaken across several regional laboratories, a new £130 million facility was commissioned in York. We were engaged to manage the critical final stages of completion and handover.

The Challenge

The project required careful coordination to ensure continuity of scientific research while enabling the closure of regional sites. Stakeholder concerns, regulatory requirements, and additional security needs added to the complexity. The programme was at risk without decisive management of both technical issues and stakeholder priorities.

Our Approach

We provided leadership and assurance by:

• Consulting stakeholders to prioritise issues and align expectations.

• Coordinating with the Home Office to facilitate laboratory licensing.

• Determining requirements for enhanced security and specialist research facilities.

• Tendering and administering construction management contracts.

• Motivating the project team and fostering collaboration with the joint venture contractor to deliver critical completions.

The Outcome

Through phased handovers, the new laboratory complex was successfully completed and occupied. This enabled continuity of scientific research, safeguarded vital national capability, and supported the rationalisation and closure of CSL’s regional facilities.