AstraZeneca has halted a £200m expansion of its Cambridge research site, stalling its £650m UK investment plan.
The Cambridge project, expected to create 1,000 jobs, joins the previously canceled £450m vaccine facility in Merseyside.
An AstraZeneca spokesperson confirmed the pause, citing regular reassessment of investment needs and declined further comment.
Meanwhile, the company plans $50bn in US investments by 2030, including new facilities in Virginia and labs across six states.
The pause follows a week of UK setbacks, including Merck scrapping a £1bn London research centre and laying off 125 scientists.
Sir John Bell warned other pharmaceutical companies are reconsidering UK investments, citing regulatory and economic uncertainties.
Sanofi called for a clearer Treasury plan, stating the UK is currently “not a good place” for drug development.
Eli Lilly also paused its £279m London lab project, reflecting broader industry caution in the UK.
Industry groups urge NHS pricing reform, seeking a lower clawback rate to align with European standards.
AstraZeneca Pauses £200m Cambridge Expansion Amid UK Pharma Setbacks
Andrew Rogers
Andrew Rogers is a freelance journalist based in Beijing, China, with over 15 years of experience covering Politics, World Affairs, Business, Health, Technology, Finance, Lifestyle, and Culture. He earned his degree in Communication and Journalism from the University of Florida. Over the course of his career, he has contributed to major outlets such as The Miami Herald, CNN, and USA Today. Known for his clear and engaging reporting, Andrew delivers accurate and timely news that keeps readers informed on both national and international developments.
