Andy Burnham opens Cheadle life sciences manufacturing facility

Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art life sciences manufacturing facility in Cheadle that is set to create up to 100 new jobs over the next five years.

Mr Burnham (pictured left with Seda CEO, Dr Paul Stott) formally opened the new drug product Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) facility of Stockport pharmaceuticals firm, Seda Group, where he also took part in a tour of the site. The facility has been supported by an £8 million investment that will further strengthen Stockport and Greater Manchester’s reputation as a hub for the life sciences sector. The site is also set to attract more than half of its projected revenue from international business.

The opening of the new facility coincides with the launch of Seda Clinical Manufacturing Services (CMS); this arm of the business expands the Cheadle Royal based group into GMP manufacturing, testing, and supply and enables Seda to supply investigational medicinal products for testing in clinical studies.

Seda Group CEO, Dr Paul Stott, said:

“We are thrilled to expand our capabilities with the launch of Seda CMS, enhancing our support for both domestic and international clients. This facility not only generates jobs and revenue but also reinforces the North of England’s role as an innovation hotspot.”

Investment in Seda Group’s new Stockport manufacturing facility has been partially funded by Santander NW and follows the company being recognised with a 2024 King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade earlier this year.

The business has also received from Greater Manchester’s inward investment agency, MIDAS. Andrea Winders, Head of Life Sciences at MIDAS, commented:

“At MIDAS, we’re proud to support innovative businesses like Seda that are transforming Greater Manchester’s life sciences landscape. This £8 million facility represents more than just a local investment – it’s a strategic milestone that will generate up to 100 high-skilled jobs, attract international clients, and position Manchester as a global hub for pharmaceutical innovation. By supporting Seda’s expansion in Cheadle, we’re helping to drive economic growth, enhance the region’s scientific capabilities, and showcase the incredible potential of our local life sciences ecosystem.”