Angus Council’s new chief executive has approached pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline after the firm’s Montrose plant emerged as a contender for investment which could bring hundreds of jobs to the town.
After a glowing appraisal by GSK chief executive Andrew Witty, the Angus plant is one of four company sites being assessed in a £500 million plan to create a UK biopharmaceutical factory.
The turnaround at an operation earmarked for closure just a few years ago has already brought a decision to relocate some steroidal product manufacturing from India to Angus.
Now the local authority has moved quickly to set up lines of communication over what one councillor has called a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the town.”
Council chief executive Richard Stiff said on Monday he was encouraged by the comments of Mr Witty after his fact-finding tour of the Angus plant last week.
Mr Witty broke the good news to Montrose staff that more production will come to Angus, and confirmed the Cobden Street operation as a runner in the four-horse race for selection as the site for a new UK plant the outcome of which is likely to be determined next year.
The council will establish a working group to look at strengthening the Montrose case, and last night Mr Stiff confirmed he has already sought a meeting with GSK bosses.
He said, “The transfer of biomanufacturing work to Montrose is very welcome and is testament to the commitment of the local workforce as is the fact that Montrose is one of the sites being considered by GSK for a significant UK development.
“Angus Council has a very productive relationship with the company and we look forward to working with them as they develop their operation in Montrose… it is important we move as quickly as possible on this in any positive way we can.
“I have written to GSK’s chief executive, Andrew Witty, to confirm that the council is keen to discuss the possibilities for the site and clarify how we might enable the company to see Montrose as the location of choice for this investment.”
The swift reaction to the recent news was welcomed by Montrose councillor Mark Salmond who said he was delighted that Mr Stiff has taken on board the suggestion of setting up a working group.
Mr Salmond said, “I would like to see our officers use whatever expertise and contacts they may have to help build the case for this investment to come to Montrose.
“I am sure that the other GSK sites which are being looked at including Irvine in Ayrshire will be doing exactly the same so it is important we move as quickly as possible on this in any positive way we can.”