UCB announced its plans to build a biologics pilot plant on its site of Braine-l'Alleud in Belgium, further executing its strategy to become the next generation biopharma leader focusing on central nervous system (CNS) and immunology.

"The intent to build a new pilot plant within UCB's Braine-l'Alleud site is in line with UCB's decision to focus on its core skills and adapt its competencies for the future, as outlined in the SHAPE programme," says Roch Doliveux, CEO of UCB.

This planned investment should amount to EUR 65 million and is supported by the Walloon Government. The biologics pilot plant is expected to become operational early 2012 and around 100 new job opportunities should be created in the medium-term. Advanced feasibility studies are currently ongoing.

The biologics pilot plant will allow UCB to further optimise the bio-manufacturing processes for its biological compounds under development, extending its knowledge and competencies in this field.

UCB, Brussels, Belgium is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the research, development and commercialization of innovative medicines with a focus on the fields of central nervous system and immunology disorders.