relenza made in montrose and boronia!

6 April 2006
LIFELINE FOR BIRD VIRUS DRUG PLANT

A DOOMED drugs factory that makes anti bird-flu medication was saved from closure yesterday.

Bosses at GlaxoSmithKline saved 300 jobs being lost with a £25million cash injection.

The plant in Montrose, Angus, produces a key ingredient in the drug Relenza, which is one of only two on the market that can help treat the bird flu virus.

It is the only outlet in the UK registered to produce the ingredient Zanamivir.

But the factory was due to shut later this year until management had a change of heart.

Last night, a GSK spokesman confirmed the news, but said the investment was to support the production of other ingredients.

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He said the site's future was linked to four drugs the firm are developing to help fight asthma, diabetes and heart disease.

The spokesman added: "The plant is to remain open to help support the production of these drugs, which generated sales of £4.5 billion last year.

"Staff have been exemplary in handling the uncertainty and supporting GSK.

"Montrose now has a key part to play in our global supply network and will receive significant investment."

First Minister Jack McConnell, in the US for Tartan Week, said: "It's fantastic they have decided to make a major commitment to Scotland and Montrose."

GSK put the 52-year-old plant up for sale three years ago and voluntary redundancy programme has reduced the workforce to 300 from over 1000.

Ingredients used in the treatment of skin conditions, respiratory problems and cancer are also manufactured there.