The UK Government's Life Science’s Minister George Freeman MP visited Charnwood Campus in Loughborough today (3 March) to meet the team responsible for the transformation of the former AstraZeneca pharmaceutical site, and to discuss its potential role in strengthening the local economy.
The Minister's visit coincided with the publication of a new report, ‘Transforming Life Sciences Sites – a toolkit for action’ by a group of senior stakeholders from across the UK. The toolkit, targeted at both the public and private sector, seeks to provide a single source of information and advice for all those involved in supporting the growth of life science sites in the UK. It shares best practice from case studies; provides key questions and issues to consider; and lists further sources of information and support.
During his tour, the Minister was briefed on how the anchor tenant, contract development and manufacturing organisation Almac Group, is upgrading the facilities to provide office and laboratory space, analytical testing, formulation development, and small- and large-scale manufacturing facilities. Senior Almac representatives presented further detail on the firm's projected £16m investment in facilities on the site that will see the creation of approximately 180 jobs in the next five years.
Converting the site at Charnwood to a new cutting edge life-sciences facility is a huge success story for Loughborough and the Midlands Engine
Freeman said: 'Converting the site at Charnwood to a new cutting edge life-sciences facility is a huge success story for Loughborough and the Midlands Engine. Almac’s decision to invest in the UK underscores the region’s reputation in life sciences and will protect the local talent and expertise to help drive economic growth and improve healthcare for all.'
Almac Pharma Services Managing Director, Graeme McBurney, added: 'For us, Charnwood provides Almac with high quality, bespoke facilities that fully complement our existing pharmaceutical development and analytical laboratories in Craigavon, allowing us to meet future client and industry needs. With contracts signed, detailed planning has been completed and facility re-commissioning and equipment procurement activities have commenced. Additionally, recruitment of local management and operational teams has also begun, in line with our projection of being operational by the first quarter of 2017.'
Gosia Khrais, Commercial and Marketing Director for Charnwood Campus, said: 'We really appreciate the Minister’s interest in our progress at Charnwood Campus. We have transformed and recommissioned these remarkable facilities, and with the support of our local partners, and MP Nicky Morgan, we have now created the kind of campus where larger innovative companies such as Almac can thrive.'
Companies moving into Charnwood Campus will have access to conferencing and catering facilities, site reception and helpdesk, business support programmes, a gym, and communal meeting spaces. The Campus is set in parkland and has extensive parking facilities and onsite security.
