People in the UK will be better protected from future pandemics and biosecurity threats thanks to Government investment into a new, world-leading biosecurity centre in Harlow, Essex.
The National Biosecurity Centre (NBC) will increase the speed and scale of research into dangerous pathogens and life-saving vaccines, boosting healthcare and economic growth, and protecting UK national security.
The Government is investing billions of pounds in the project, including £250m over this Parliament, for vital research and testing that is currently split across UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) sites in Porton Down and Colindale under one roof.
Once complete, the NBC will be the largest in Europe, creating around 1,600 new jobs to support construction of the site, enabling the development of new treatments and vaccines that could save countless lives.
The NBC will also deliver 2,750 high-quality jobs and £80 million a year injected into the local economy once completed.
Work to prepare for operation will begin as soon as possible with the first facilities due to open by the mid-2030s.
The whole site is scheduled to be in operation by 2038.
Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said “This transformational investment in the UK’s national biosecurity will better protect the British public from future health emergencies, boost the life sciences sector and create new jobs.
“COVID-19 taught us how crucial it is to be able to respond quickly to new emerging threats, and the new National Biosecurity Centre will allow us to do exactly that — ensuring Britain remains a world-leader in pandemic preparedness.
“Harlow will become a scientific hub, with The National Biosecurity Centre exploring new ways to treat illnesses, improve people’s health and save more lives.
“By backing innovation, research and life sciences, we will make our NHS fit for the future, and cement the UK as a life sciences superpower as part of our Plan for Change.”
The NBC will create 1,600 extra jobs to support construction of the site and enabling closer collaboration between leading scientists and the life sciences sector.
Commenting on the announcement, the Leader of Harlow Council and HGGT Chair, Cllr Dan Swords, said: “This is a moment of huge significance – not just for Harlow today, but for its future for generations to come as our fierce lobbying of the Government has paid off.
“With deep roots in pharmaceutical innovation, Harlow has long been a place of ingenuity, innovation, and talent and the confirmation that the multi-billion-pound UKHSA headquarters is relocating to Harlow is one of the biggest moments in our town’s modern history.
“It is a clear vote of confidence in Harlow – in our people, our potential, and our place at the heart of the UK Innovation Corridor.
“It is also the most powerful signal yet that the transformation of Harlow is real and a profound statement about our potential to lead in science, health, and economic renewal.
“This single decision brings with it thousands of high-quality jobs, millions in investment, purpose-driven opportunities for our young people while anchoring world-leading research and placing Harlow at the heart of global efforts to tackle tomorrow’s health challenges.
“But more than that, it redefines what’s possible for Harlow – putting us at the forefront of health innovation not just nationally, but globally.
“Our plan to Build Harlow’s Future has always been about delivering real results that change local people’s lives. This announcement is the embodiment of that vision – showing that with ambition, leadership and relentless focus, we can transform this iconic New Town into one of the most dynamic and prosperous places in the country. And that our people, with the right backing, can shape the future of public health and innovation on a national stage.
“We are not managing decline – we are leading a renaissance by building Harlow’s future. This confirmation is another piece of that puzzle as we stay true to our vision.
“I want to thank all our partners and local leaders who stood shoulder to shoulder to make the case for Harlow. Now, we get to work – because the best is yet to come.”
