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Science park plans unveiled for Horsham's former Novartis site

Plans to transform the former Novartis site in Horsham into a new science park, and create thousands of jobs in the process, has been unveiled by West Sussex County Council.

In a landmark deal for the county, the council has agreed to purchase the 19.6 acre Horsham site, former home of global healthcare company Novartis, subject to contract.

If granted planning permission, the site will be developed into new science park that will host international firms in life-saving research work and the development of innovative technology.

The development will be a major boost for the West Sussex economy and is set to bring up to 1,000 jobs to the county.

The site will also provide a home for fledgling firms starting out in the sector who could grow to become the big employers of the future.

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.”

Plans show two thirds of the Wimblehurst Road site will be transformed into a science park, while one third will be set aside for high quality housing.

Hugh O’Dowd, Country President & General Manager - United Kingdom & Ireland Novartis Pharmaceuticals Ltd, said: “I am delighted to be able to confirm that we are in detailed discussions with West Sussex County Council about purchasing our former Horsham site at Wimblehurst Road. We have agreed initial heads of terms and are now working on full contracts, with the aim of completing negotiations by early summer 2016.

“This is good news for Horsham and its residents as West Sussex County Council intends to bring high skilled jobs to the area, as well as develop some local housing. If the new campus becomes a health and life sciences hub for the region as West Sussex County Council intend, it will also help to realise our ambition of leaving a scientific legacy at the site.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ellen Forster .