The main component of the new cancer research building will house high tech laboratories for 243 Discovery scientists, chemistry and biosciences staff, NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) facilities and support personnel.

The new building is a part of the company's strategic goal for Alderley Park Discovery to increase CD (candidate drug) output each year. It builds upon Alderley Park's heritage and capabilities in oncology, including the discovery and development of important cancer medicines such as Nolvadex, Zoladex, Arimidex and Casodex. AstraZeneca's product range and its future pipeline of cancer treatments are major strengths in its global drug portfolio.

Jan Lundberg, Executive Vice President, Global Discovery commented on the investment:

"Alderley Park is the largest R&D facility in AstraZeneca and the oncology scientists have been responsible for a number of significant scientific breakthroughs in cancer therapy. The depth of AstraZeneca's current oncology portfolio and pipeline reflects our cancer research expertise"

As with the other new laboratory and office facilities at Alderley Park, the building's design will be integral to enhancing the Discovery research process itself. Creating interaction between scientific disciplines is a key feature of the architecture, together with flexible open spaces and meeting areas to stimulate discussion and knowledge sharing amongst scientists.

Les Hughes, Global Vice President CIRA (Cancer and Infection Research Area) said:

"The AstraZeneca centre for oncology research at Alderley Park has consistently delivered world-leading medicines for the business. The discovery teams have built an industry-leading capability in key areas of cancer research that has led to the development of medicines in an area of high unmet medical need, realising huge benefits for patients as well as growth for the business".

Dave Roberts, Vice President for Cancer Discovery, Alderley Park, added, "The Oncology RA building project teams have worked extremely hard in defining the scope and design principles for the building and in assembling a compelling business case for the investment. The benefits are numerous, from enabling scientists to work in a more integrated way in high quality facilities, to reinforcing the company's ability to attract and retain talented people"

Site General Manager Will Spinks added,"This is great news for the site, which is literally being transformed with new buildings that reflect AstraZeneca's position as a leading global business, that provide world class science facilities and which are in keeping with the historic parkland setting, through the use of high quality natural materials."

AstraZeneca is a major international healthcare business engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of ethical (prescription) pharmaceuticals and the supply of healthcare services. It is one of the top five pharmaceutical companies in the world with healthcare sales of over $17.8 billion and leading positions in sales of oncology, gastroenterology, anaesthesia (including pain management), cardiovascular, central nervous system (CNS) and respiratory products.

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