Date Created: 16 January 2012
Scotland's life sciences have received a major boost with the announcement of plans to develop a dedicated base for growing bioscience, pharmaceutical, med tech and healthcare companies.
This joint venture between BioCity Nottingham and Roslin BioCentre has been enabled by the gifting of a former-MSD research facility at Newhouse to the newly-formed BioCity Scotland Limited by MSD (operating in the US and Canada as Merck & Co).
"A unique, vibrant community"
The agreement unlocks over 130,000 sq ft of purpose-built laboratories and offices on the 23 acre site capable of supporting pre-clinical drug discovery and development by a range of independent, ambitious companies. In addition there are administrative and conference facilities to provide support and networking capabilities for the client companies.
Speaking at the announcement of the deal, BioCity Scotland, Chairman Louis J. Nisbet said: "BioCity Scotland is much more than a property proposition - it will be a unique, vibrant community of scientific companies.
"Just a short drive from Scotland's two largest cities, it is ideally situated to attract the cream of life science talent. The work starts now, the prospects are boundless."
The rejuvenated site will complement the existing provision of space for life science firms in Scotland by catering for growing companies wanting a central base on the M8 just 15 miles from Glasgow and 33 miles from Edinburgh.
"Globally recognised for inovation, enterprise and technology"
BioCity Scotland will also provide access to a wide range of state-of-the-art equipment, available to rent at very competitive rates. On site business support will ensure that companies are able to tap into a developed support system and funding opportunities to assist their growing business needs.
Welcoming the announcement, Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Employment and Sustainable Growth, John Swinney said: "Scotland is globally recognised for innovation, enterprise and technology. The reputation of our research base and life sciences sector has played an important part in Biocity's decision to establish this centre of excellence in Lanarkshire."
Chris Hill, MSD Vice President and the former Head of MSD's Newhouse facility, said: "This is a fantastic outcome for the Life Sciences community in Scotland. The ongoing commercial operation of the site will attract investment to the local area generating employment opportunities for local communities and the success of this development will play a significant role in securing the future of Life Sciences in Scotland."
Read more about Scotland's strengths in life sciences