West Sussex County Council has agreed to purchase a 20 acre brownfield site in Horsham West Sussex, from global healthcare company Novartis. It now plans to transform the site into a new science park that will host leading firms in life-saving research work and the development of innovative technology.
The development will be a major boost for the local economy and is set to bring up to 1,000 jobs to the county. It puts West Sussex on track to become a leading European centre for the health and life sciences sector.
Louise Goldsmith, Leader of West Sussex County Council, said: “This is a really exciting prospect for the county. Our vision is to create a world renowned centre of excellence building on the site’s respected history with Novartis. It will deliver a science and business park that will help stimulate further growth in the sector, provide high quality jobs for the county and provide support for small, innovative start-up businesses.
“The site has a rich legacy dating back to the 1930s. By purchasing the site the County Council can retain and build on that legacy.”
The site was previously used for medical research, and ambitious plans have been unveiled to build on the site’s respected history through redeveloping it as a new UK-campus for medtech, life sciences and related businesses. It is expected the development opportunity will include Grade A offices and up to 30% residential accommodation.
The County Council is appointing a marketing partner to work with them to progress the development. For an informal discussion, or to register your interest in finding out more about the opportunity, please email info@investwestsussex.co.uk