The agreement to purchase the new campus in Windlesham, Surrey by UCB demonstrates the global biopharmaceutical company's commitment to the UK's life sciences sector and its drive to support cutting-edge research and development, as well as develop innovative treatments for patients with neurological and immunological conditions.

The acquisition of the 47-acre site, from Eli Lilly and Company Limited, due to complete in November 2020, will undergo a significant modernisation, prior to UCB relocating from its current UK headquarters in Slough, Berkshire. The relocation to a state-of-the-art facility will underpin UCB’s promise to invest more than £1 billion over five years and support more than 650 high-value jobs as well as support its wider collaborations with UK universities, charities and other companies. 

The Addleshaw Goddard team was led by partner Chris Cartwright, with support from managing associates Elly Chatfield and Jamie Lee Harris (Real Estate), partners Gary Sector (Planning), Michelle Headrige (Environment), and partner Andy McVeigh, Sam Comer and Rob Easton (Construction) and Justine Delroy and Chris Connors (Tax). 

Chris Cartwright said: "UCB is one of the most research-intensive companies in Europe and this site represents one of its three R&D hubs in the world, as well as its UK headquarters. We are proud to have played a role in supporting UCB's commitment, not only to the UK, but to the global life sciences sector, helping them achieve their strategic aims in advancing scientific research and providing solutions to patients globally."