Merit, the UK’s leading industrialised construction and digital manufacturing specialist, is thrilled to announce a significant milestone in the development of the new NHS Medicines Manufacturing Centre (MMC) at Seaton Delaval.
Recently, the site welcomed the successful delivery of four vital Air Handling Unit (AHU) PODs, seven Header Pre-Assembled Modules (PAMs) and eight Lid PAMs, transported from Merit’s smart factory in Cramlington. Utilising a 150-tonne crane, these components were successfully lifted through the roof of the facility and secured into place on the first floor.
This achievement marks a crucial step forward in the facility’s construction timeline as offsite manufactured components continue to arrive and be integrated into the developing structure. The progress illustrates Merit’s commitment to driving efficiency and innovation within the construction sector.
News of this significant milestone follows Merit’s announcement in October 2024, when the business was appointed by the North East and North Cumbria Provider Collaborative* to design and fit-out the multimillion-pound NHS Medicines Manufacturing Centre. Partnering with Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, the MMC will be located within their Manufacturing & Innovation Hub in Seaton Delaval.
The new Medicines Manufacturing Centre will play a pivotal role in the region by producing chemotherapy treatments and injectable medicines to support hospitals across North East and North Cumbria. With an estimated capacity to deliver up to one million dosages of medication each year, the facility is expected to significantly bolster aseptic services in the area and create approximately 150 new jobs.
Upon completion, the state-of-the-art MMC will feature Grade B and Grade C cleanrooms, dedicated production areas, Quality Control (QC) laboratories, as well as administrative and welfare facilities.
Tony Wells, CEO of Merit, stated: "Reaching this milestone is a testament to our team’s expertise and dedication. We are proud to contribute to a project that will not only enhance healthcare delivery in our region but will also create valuable employment opportunities. As we continue our progress, we remain committed to utilising innovative offsite manufacturing techniques to ensure a timely and efficient completion."
Marc Sutton, Managing Director of the Medicines Manufacturing Centre commented: "The Medicines Manufacturing Centre represents a transformative investment in the health and prosperity of the North East and North Cumbria.
"By producing vital chemotherapy and injectable treatments locally, we are not only strengthening the region’s healthcare resilience but also creating high-quality jobs and fostering innovation in advanced manufacturing.
"This milestone brings us one step closer to delivering a world-class facility that will serve our communities for years to come."
Damon Kent, Managing Director of Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management, said: “We’re thrilled to have reached such a significant milestone in this project. This stage of the project really highlights the advantages of what's known as ‘modern methods of construction’. These techniques offer exceptional build quality and ensure steady progress regardless of weather conditions. I’m excited to see rapid developments on-site as we move forward.”
The development of the NHS Medicines Manufacturing Centre represents a critical advancement in regional healthcare infrastructure, positioning the North East and North Cumbria to meet growing healthcare demands.
You many also like
See all media
