Biotechnology company to create jobs with new DNA manufacturing facility in London

Biotechnology company Touchlight has received its first phase of planning approval to begin renovation and repair on its prospective new research facility in London’s Hampton.

The company specialises in enzymatic DNA production, and will be utilising the remaining part of the Morelands and Riverdale Buildings, a former Victorian water works on the River Thames, as its new facility site.

The facility will house 11 new DNA production suites, bringing the total on site to 15.

Touchlight’s expansion is in direct response to the growing global demand for DNA, driven in particular by the advent of mRNA and DNA vaccines, as well as cell and gene therapies. This expansion necessitates the addition of up to 60 new employees, through the provision of additional essential laboratory and office space.

Jonny Ohlson, executive chairman of Touchlight, said: “Touchlight was founded 14 years ago based on a belief that DNA was destined to underpin the next generation of medicines, and these have now truly come of age.

“The expansion of our Hampton facility is integral to our mission to support this genetic medicine revolution, meeting the explosion in demand for DNA by providing globally unrivalled manufacturing capacity.”

Twickenham MP Murina Wilson, who visited the new site, added: “It is fantastic to see the ongoing restoration of the Grade II listed Morelands and Riverdale Victorian pumping station in Hampton.

“Touchlight is bringing the buildings back to life and, while doing so, providing excellent local employment opportunities and playing a significant role in positioning the UK as a global leader in genetic medicines.”