Rochdale firm BES praised by Covid-19 vaccine researchers.

Posted by on 6 Jul 2020

Despite the challenges of social distancing the pharmaceutical design and construction specialists completed a new facility for Keele-based Cobra Biologics, who are at the forefront of Covid-19 vaccine research.

The time-critical viral vector suite project is a pivotal element of Cobra’s commercial strategy and BES delivered the project despite the social distancing and supply chain challenges of the pandemic.

Peter Coleman, CEO of Cobra, said: “From the outset, the BES team understood our commercial and operational requirements and worked with us to design and programme the project around those needs.

“The company’s experience in the pharmaceutical industry makes them ideally placed to deliver complex projects like this for the gene cell therapy sector.

“Their multi-disciplinary team not only worked collaboratively with us, but seamlessly with each other, for a joined-up and efficient approach.

“This was particularly important during a period when we are involved in development and manufacturing work of international importance for Covid-19 response.

“It’s extraordinary that, despite the challenges of the lockdown, BES has completed the project to such a high standard.”

Located within Keele University campus, Cobra has invested in upgrading part of its existing development and production facility with three viral vector* suites.

The project will enable Cobra to expand its clinical and commercial viral vector services as a Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisation (CDMO).

Working closely with the Cobra team, BES was responsible for providing design development of Cobra’s concept around their user requirements, leveraging the company’s multi-disciplinary team across all mechanical and electrical engineering, architectural design, construction and project management requirements.

Paul Marsh, engineering director at BES said: “This project highlights the level of expertise within the BES team which makes us a key delivery partner for specialist environments designed for pioneering scientific businesses. It is a project of national and international significance and we are proud to have delivered it.”

BES was founded in 2002 and is part of the Boulting Ltd group of companies.