University of Brighton plans for Novartis site welcomed as ‘exciting news’ by Horsham MP

The pharmaceutical giant announced today it is currently negotiating the sale of the site off Wimblehurst Road with the Sussex-based university after the company’s operations ceased in the town last year.

If agreed a high-quality centre for higher education could create an estimated 2,250 new jobs, bring £1.7bn of investment into the region over 10 years, and provide around 3,500 places for students.

Mr Maude said: “I welcome the news that Brighton University and Novartis are in detailed negotiation about this large town centre site.

“Losing the Novartis operation was a shock to the town, and the prospect of a world-leading scientific and educational legacy would seem very fitting and appropriate. This is exciting news.”

The announcement has also been welcomed by residents and business leaders.