Merck Sharpe and Dohme’s Newhouse site acquired by BioCity Scotland

Merck Sharpe and Dohme has been able to secure the future of its former research facility in Newhouse by gifting the facility to BioCity Scotland.

The newly formed organisation, created as a joint venture between BioCity Nottingham and Roslin BioCentre, will take over the 130,000 sq ft laboratory and office complex on the 23-acre site, providing it with a dedicated central Scottish base.

It will help to establish the nation as a thriving centre for life science research and will be used to support pre-clinical drug discovery and development for various independent companies.

Merck Sharpe and Dohme has won praise from Scottish government ministers for its decision, which will help to ensure the facility remains in use and continues to attract investment.

Chris Hill, vice-president for the company and former head of the Newhouse site, said: "We are delighted to have secured such an accomplished investor and a viable and exciting future for the site in such a short period of time."

Last month, the firm announced a new financial support agreement with the charitable organisation PATH, which will aid research efforts into lifesaving technology for mothers in developing nations.